These are cheap properties, probably in sketch locations (since that's where cheap properties are) so even a huge increase in appreciation % doesn't translate to a huge change in absolute value.

I was hasty due to the higher mortgage rates, and it turned out to be a huge mistake.

This community has already been a huge help in my first week, so I’ll keep reaching out!

Another huge thing to consider is laws and regulations, many times new investors will jump at Hudson county thinking the proximity to NYC is great for renting (which it is) but many of the municipalities in Hudson county have very strict landlord laws. 

One huge benefit of a private/HML loan is the strength of making an offer when competing with cash buyers.

We still find buyers (and renters) that like open to a degree but want / need the office space for remote or hybrid work arrangements.When dealing with a market that does not have huge spreads on properties, one needs to define what is really important versus what is nice to have and see if the math works. 

To me, it was a huge learning lesson when I made that mistake.

Jim your also describing one of the huge benefits of being a transactional RE Broker ..

Required again as of 12/23/24 Appeals Court:"In light of a December 23, 2024, federal Court of Appeals decision, reporting companies, except as indicated below, are once again required to file beneficial ownership information with FinCEN.

(A huge competitive advantage for the little guy.