Generally speaking, Boston proper is an appreciation market (low cap rates) unless you have a solid value-add play.

if they are a great PM 20% is totally fair. not too high and not too low

In markets like Chicago or Baltimore, where there is not much new construction, we will see rents rise faster than inflation. 2) 2026 will see new multifamily deliveries slow to closer to historical lows, though not quite as low as what we saw in the great recession. 

The median home price is also very low nationwide which creates a low barrier to entry.

If you're just starting, focus on free or low-cost resources to build your foundation, and consider mentorship later if you need personalized guidance or want to accelerate your progress.Good luck!

City-Data and Census.gov are solid resources, and sites like Rentometer can give you a good sense of rental prices.After that, I narrow it down to neighborhoods with strong fundamentals—good schools, low crime, and convenient amenities.

If before getting a permit you have to dance around for Code Dept officials/ city gov and crime is thru the roof, investments will definitely be low whether real estate or other, but it should be benefiting the city officials to keep things that way.

Using a HELOC or home equity loan on your personal home could be a good option, especially if you can secure a low interest rate and manageable terms.

Buy low sell high..

After 2 years you can apply for a “Rent consideration” (I think that’s what they called it) as long as you still live there and that may allow you to increase rents by more than the annual allowance (probably designed for unit that are very low rents).