How to track potential growth in an area to see if a lot is viable for purchase and building spec homes on etc. 

@Darrius LloydTo start your house hacking journey, research neighborhoods with potential for multifamily properties and balance affordability with tenant quality.

People come to me to invest because I've shown over several decades that I can produce results, and when the market doesn't go our way and results are difficult to produce, I've shown that I can achieve the best outcome possible and weather storms without losing people's money. 

Here are some trends that could play out, or further develop in 2025.Leasing & Tenant Experience AI-Powered Leasing: Chatbots and AI tools will streamline leasing processes, from answering tenant inquiries to scheduling tours.Virtual Tours & Digital Leasing: These will become even more standard, making it easier for tenants to rent remotely.TechnologySmart Property Management: IoT devices (smart locks, thermostats, etc.) will become more common, improving efficiency and tenant satisfaction.Property Management Software: Platforms will integrate more AI for predictive maintenance, rent collection, and financial reporting.SustainabilityGreen building practices and energy-efficient upgrades will be a major focus, driven by tenant demand and potential incentives.AI & AutomationAI will play a bigger role in tenant screening, rent pricing optimization, and even predicting market trends.Automation will handle repetitive tasks like maintenance requests and lease renewals, freeing up PMs for higher-level activities.I'm sure there are plenty more shifting trends that I haven't mentioned and that are sure to evolve over the next year. 

Hi Saul,For better cash flow potential, you might consider Memphis.

Even the best property management companies (PMC) struggle with:- Finding reliable handyman and contractors (ServiceTechs)- Same with affordable ones- Tracking preventive maintenance- Tracking previous work for potential reoccurrence warranty coverage- Understanding tenant reported problems, so the correct ServiceTech can be dispatched- Determining if tenant is at fault for an issue & should be charged - and will proof stand up in court?

Covering the mortgage isn’t an issue, but I’m considering factors like: Multi-Family: House hacking would help offset costs right away, but I’d likely need to put money into renovations upfront.Single-Family: Easier move-in with no immediate renovations needed, plus potentially lower tenant turnover once I rent it out For those who have been in a similar situation, what did you choose and why?

Turbotax isn't going to educate you so unless you'd like to educate yourself and potentially make some costly pitfalls, then I'd outsource.

I am potentially looking into getting a trailer at the begining of the year getting a trailer that may need some work to rent out.

I have them tell me how long a project will take to complete, and then I add buffer days or maybe up to 2 weeks, depending on how long / complex of a project it is and potentially accounting for weather if it is outside work.