We always recommend starting local when possible.

Start local.

Don't be discouraged by the lower returns—house hacking is often about long-term wealth-building, and your primary residence can offset some of those mediocre numbers.Make sure you're accounting for local trends and realistic rents—sometimes expected rent growth is overly optimistic, or costs like repairs might be underestimated.

Our rehab cost estimation comes from researching the area and talking with local investors that have similar properties. 

I've confirmed it with a few other local real estate investors the same sentiments. 

So I arranged the large local home buyers to meet at the property. 

Popular markets often include beach towns, mountain retreats, and areas with strong tourism.It’s also important to research local regulations, occupancy rates, and management costs to make sure the numbers work.

Going to local meetups is always the first step! 

Any investors or locals care to share some insight on Fayetteville, Rogers, Bentonville, and surrounding cities? 

I reach out just to help as I'm a local agent/investor here in the area; and my focus is primarily on investment properties with my clients.