When looking for cash flowing markets.. a lot of investors, including myself, are looking in cities like Cleveland.

I suppose I should have included that info.

I learned so much along the way, including navigating the legal process needed to remove previous owners (squatters) who did not want to leave.

This is the sum of all of the sources of gain including not only cash flow and appreciation but also depreciation and amortization of the loan. 

Listing your property there ensures visibility.Build Relationships: When agents reach out, respond quickly, highlight your property’s amenities, and showcase your flexibility to meet displaced families’ needs.Highlight Insurance-Friendly Features: Emphasize features like flexible lease terms, utilities included, and a fully furnished setup to attract insurance placements.This approach has helped me successfully market to insurance companies.

Just to make sure we’re both on the same page, I’m referring to the annualized total return that is included in the bigger pockets rental calculator — I wasn’t intending to compare RE to stocks, but maybe I’m missing something in your answer.  

STR feels more like a strategy to break even or eek out a meager return on a great asset than a strategy to cashflow.

I own 32 properties myself and have bought and sold over 300, including a few apartment complexes.

Some of those included those previously mentioned windows.  

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about Birmingham.