As you mentioned, having a couple of rental properties as a safety net can provide steady passive income, especially in times of uncertainty or if you decide to slow down in the future.

Our first step after posting a 3 day without a response is to do a safety check.

They say it is for safety.

You can:* accept as is (or ask for credits)* demand the seller fixes it and gets town sign off* demand the seller rips it out (e.g. an illegally finished basement)In theory, these changes should be grandfathered in and aside from legitimate safety concerns (e.g.

FHA has the appraiser check inspect the house for health/safety and to make sure there is good life on the roof and systems. 2.

I’m worried about liability, safety, and frankly, whether my personal belongings are at risk.I’m in Illinois (but not in Cook County or Chicago, where I know the laws are stricter).

My gut tells me that Texas, particularly Austin and Houston, could be where the next wave of growth and expansion occurs, mainly driven by strong business and job creation trends.Here’s what I’m looking for in my US investments:Free-standing houses with a good land component, at least 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, and in well-maintained condition.Budget : Will have to keep a factor of safety for the current exchange rates of AUD.USD = 0.68 so will cap our budget at 250K- 300K.Yielding over 6%, with a slight cash flow positive outcome, while also offering medium-term capital appreciation potential.Holding for at least 5 years or more, with a view towards steady growth.The long-term goal is financial independence, reducing reliance on salary-based income, and building assets during this accumulation phase.Debt reduction is on the horizon—looking to consolidate and start winding down debt within the next 7 years.If anyone has experience investing in the Texas real estate market or any tips on navigating US property investments, feel free to share your thoughts!

Dismissing any marketing strategy simply because it doesn't align with your business model is unreasonable.

The reality is you need to move off a few factors---fast solutions have slow problems, due diligence, have a healthy safety blanket reserve wise. 

@Mark DuttonTo manage risk in investing, focus on building a safety net with a $1,300/month surplus.