Plenty of investors have used this approach to grow their portfolios.

My name is Ashley and I’m looking to provide value as a bird dog by helping investors find off-market deals in areas like Trenton, Hamilton, Hightstown, East Windsor, and Princeton.My goal is to learn, grow, and build lasting relationships with investors in my local market.

It is exciting to think about having a big stack of cash to invest in something, but what if that something doesn't advance you the way your property does since it grows in value AND provides income.Maybe the $800/mo cash flow can be your seed money for stock you want to buy...? 

Austin is a fantastic market, with its growing tech presence and vibrant culture, making it a great choice for your future career. 

I truly appreciate your support and look forward to learning and growing together!

Which of these ideas would you try first to grow your deal flow or funding network?

However it is worth it to pay a little bit more money for a mortgage now, so I can start building equity, assets, and future cash flow.Hey @Kody Glithero, welcome to the BP Forum and it's so great to hear you're looking to start your real estate journey as such a young age!

What kinds of policies do you think might help ensure ongoing affordability as Texas continues to grow?

I've found that the more you share, the more you can grow your network and connect with like-minded people.

At a 7% annual return, this could grow to $908K after 10 years, providing immediate liquidity and diversification.Alternatively, holding the property could yield $825K net equity after taxes in 10 years, assuming a $900K sale, with the potential to defer taxes via a 1031 exchange if reinvested into another property.