At first glance, 20% does seem slim to me since my partner will get most if not all of their initial investment back through re-fi in 1-4 years (probably).

Sensi Touch 2 Smart Thermostat with Touchscreen Color Display, Programmable, Wi-Fi, Data Privacy, Mobile App, Easy DIY, Works with Alexa, Energy Star Certified, ST76, C-Wire Required, New for 20234.4 out of 5 stars 167300+ bought in past month$156.62$156.62 List: $209.99$209.99FREE delivery Tue, Jan 9Or fastest delivery Sat, Jan 6Works with AlexaI just looked up lockable smart thermostat. 

You're buying scarcity.Another is to get a gauge on where you'll be marked on a re-fi if you're doing a reno or rehab, or just as an internal mark if you're not looking to pull but need to see if you're doing this in an appropriate value market wise. 

We've been FI for years with a moderate 'luxury' househack and never a car payment. 

Quote from @Becca F.:I

I decided to come up to Asheville to buy a new primary residence (from Charleston, SC). I

I have accepted I won’t achieve FI until the kids are out of the house-there are just too many expenses and even though RE is amazing, and the best investment in my opinion, my expectations have to be grounded in the reality I have.

Quote from @Becca F.: I have 5 properties (4 SFH and 1 multi-unit, co-owned) and no LLCs, still debating whether to get one.

You mentioned airbnb and short term rentals. those can be (under the right circumstances) very tax-favorable and have you move towards your FI journey even faster with a lower tax bill.

F…I…R….S…T…...exit strategies… a) FLIP….I’m investing $200k in risk ( loan) plus $30k out of pocket… if I can’t get a 30% return..