Jeff, I don't have any industry experience, but can give you consumer feedback.I live in SE WI and many national carwash companies have come into the market and built some very high end facilities. 

In my case, a crappy little $500.00 claim means it's simply not economical (unless the filling body has a s-e-r-i-o-u-s grudge and money to burn) to pursue.

Then see if anyone will mentor you (a GREAT mentor will want value exchange... buying them coffee may not do it)Where to invest;I can only speak to what I know but the Rhode Island, SE/NE Connecticut, and some Southern MA markets are all pretty hot.

I could call myself a genius for buying the house I did in 2019, it's gone up over 60% since I bought it, however, it's not my genius, it's the fact the market overall, and especially SE TN, exploded during 2020-2023.

How do you se the "rented" rooms?

“Getting into real estate” per se is not your goal.

You knew the situation with the rental, lack of security deposit etc.So, with these costs factored into your plans right from the time of purchase, they are really just part of the costs to get the place rehabbed and you haven't "lost" anything per se.

Ireside in SE Pennsylvania and would like my first investment property to be local to the area. 

I personally like new construction in the SE in markets like AL, SC, FL, TX, etc. where you will see strong cash flow and strong appreciation in both rents and market values. 

I'm looking to connect with property managers in SE Georgia, Ellabell, Pembroke area.Are referrals/recommendations would be appreciated!!