Refinances are still active, slim pickings but some players are out there who are direct lenders, flip loans are also available (75-100K) min property other than conventional and gov backed loans.  

I don’t have a crystal ball either but we are definitely feeling a pick up in the market. 

I hope it picks up but be cautious in that area.

Renting at FMV ensures the property qualifies as an investment while preserving its long-term utility for your portfolio.This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

Here are the key numbers:Potential purchase price: Mid-$400k rangeAppraised value: Estimated at ~$500kRehabbed comparable properties (comps): ~$580-600kMonthly PITI (with 5% down, including mortgage insurance): ~$3400First-year PITI (with 2-1 buydown): ~$2900Monthly income (after taxes): ~4-5kLiving expenses (utilities, groceries, etc.): ~$1600Savings available: ~15-20% of the purchase priceCash to close: ~$34kRehab estimate: ~$34kRemaining reserves: ~$20-25kTo fully fund the rehab, I’d need to come up with an additional ~$15k in the short term, which I anticipate paying back quickly once the rental portion is generating income.

. , I personally am not invested into STR's, but would like to pick your brain on the ones that were grandfathered in.

My advice: don’t overthink it—your first house hack is about learning, so pick a strong rental market, ensure solid demand, and lock in a deal that gets you close to break-even or better.

How messed up the other utilities are, how much has to get torn up and infrastructure done before any rebuilding can take place. 

If you have high holding costs (financing, taxes, insurance, utilities, etc.) the longer you are holding the less money that you are makingSelling profitably - How long will it take to sell?

I utilized those funds to purchase 18 rental units.