You can't afford to wait to act any longer.  

In Akron, there are 'A' properties in 'D-' neighborhoods (over by the zoo) where builders build affordable housing.

All else being equal, lower mortgage rates reduce the cost of ownership and, thereby, allow more people to afford to buy.

Does anyone know of an affordable second loan to help with the down payment?

Mortgage recasting is a great option for homeowners who:Have received a windfall, such as a bonus, inheritance, or proceeds from selling another property.Want to lower their monthly payments without extending their loan term or going through the hassle of refinancing.Are satisfied with their current interest rate and loan terms.How to Get StartedIf you’re considering mortgage recasting, here are the steps to take:Contact Your Lender: Ask if they offer mortgage recasting and confirm your loan’s eligibility.Determine the Lump Sum Amount: Decide how much you can afford to put toward your principal.Calculate Potential Savings: Use an online mortgage calculator or consult with your lender to estimate your new monthly payment and total savings.Submit the Request: Once you’ve made the lump sum payment, your lender will process the recasting and provide a new payment schedule.Final ThoughtsMortgage recasting can be a powerful tool for homeowners looking to reduce their monthly payments and save on interest without the cost and complexity of refinancing.

California is just not affordable for us, but we still loved living here.

When you build enough capital/assets/net worth to afford a reasonable monthly cushion you can see if the lifestyle of a full time investor is something you’d want to pursue.  

I can't speak too much to the market on the Westside, but as far as affordability on the West Coast Spokane is worth looking into.

The draw is actually this coming Fri for 2026The market for STR seems saturated in popular/touristic regions, however, if you have a unique property and offer affordable pricing, you may get descent occupancy. 

This is the heart of the reason housing isn't mroe affordable, that landlords bear these types of costs every day.You could probably find cheaper labor, especially to haul away the junk, but not easily as an out of state investor.