Highly recommend starting close to you so you can get eyes on the property if you do decide to purchase a true rental. 

Nathan I think this is true if your just talking about rental props for landlording.. the last 2 to 3 years have been the best years of my career.. building new builds and Loaning our funds.

I don't know if it's true, or a few anecdotal incidences of people having issues with newer homes.

If you are planning on living there (ie in 1 unit) then you are house-hacking and this is a different calculation consideration then renting out both units and making it a true investment.

@Jeff G. some well intended and mostly true assistance posted so far.Let's look at "logical" answers:We're going to assume only 4 Classes - A, B, C & D.- Some people go to F, but what's the point?

On the other hand, true private lenders are not professional lenders and hedge fund type lenders (which is what hard money lenders are), but instead are regular people in your circle and sphere of influence.

The part about getting out of your own way is so true, especially with managing subcontractors.

I have STR investors in Florida making 25% cash on cash returns, long term rental investors picking up properties directly off the MLS and cash flowing day 1 in various states, and house hackers completely removing their housing payment from the picture allowing them to save for for the next property.The beautiful thing about real estate is there are so many ways to succeed and a plethora of strategies depending on your comfort level and how active you want to be.

This has been true about every technological change in the industry - those who fail or refuse to adapt lose while those who embrace new tech win.

Yes, This is true!