Hi Danielle, As a property manager, if you were my client, I would recommend that you incorporate a monthly flat rate utility fee into that tenants lease.

I am starting with a small budget(100k-120k) so trying to understand which neighborhoods I should focus on, would love to get recommendations if you have :) I live south of the city and only like to go about 30 minutes away from home. 

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

I have liquid assets and want to make smart, scalable investments that balance cash flow, appreciation, and low risk.GoalsGenerate consistent cash flow to diversify my income.Maximize appreciation potential for long-term wealth growth.Invest in areas with low crime rates to minimize risk.Reduce my tax burden for 2024 with real estate purchases.My Current ThoughtsI’m torn between two main strategies:Multifamily Properties:Looking at markets like Austin, Raleigh, and Tampa for 10-50 unit multifamily properties.Love the scalability and centralized management, but I'm concerned about high upfront costs and competition.Section 8 Housing:Considering affordable markets like Memphis, Cleveland, or Indianapolis to purchase 5-10 single-family homes.I like the government-backed rent stability, but managing multiple properties across different locations seems intensive.Key QuestionsWhich strategy would you recommend for my goals and liquidity?

I'd recommend looking for a house versus a condo.

Whether it’s for fix-and-flips, rentals, or other projects, I’d love to learn more about who you’ve worked with and what your experience has been like.Do you have any solid connections or recommendations for private lenders who use their own capital?

@David R Pustelnik recommend you first focus on raising the rent for the first time in 10 years.By the way, how much have your property taxes and home insurance gone up since this tenant moved in?

I would not recommend them as their points and interest rates are so high it is extremely hard to find a deal that will work with the 0% down.

There is a lot to go into it and recommend BP and youtube to learn more about the industry. 

Our market heavily relies on the universities event calendar, so wanted to weigh in here on some recommendations.