Making matters worse, 99.9% of individuals on BiggerPockets who want to buy in distant markets do so because the entry cost of doing business is lower.

I leave legal matters to the pros.    

However having developed many subdivisions myself I was able to work with my client ( who is a very experienced civil engineer that did projects in NYC) So determined that with the base zoning it was not a matter of if it was how many and how  long to get approved.this is probably one of the top 10 markets in the entire US for new builds you would not have Toll brothers there if it was not.  35 minutes or so West of Dulles and all the high tech in that area..

I never make a loan, no matter the equity position, that the past actions of the borrowers lead me to wonder if they will be likely to pay me back. 

Area really matters.

Do you want an investment that you can use yourself such as a short-term rental in an area you like to vacation in, or does it matter which type of asset it is?

Nothing in real estate is too easy or easy for that matter.5 - Be skeptical of everything.

While metrics like square footage or price per square foot matter, the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and overall location are often more critical for attracting tenants.Engaging a property manager early on can save you from costly mistakes and help you invest in properties that perform well in the rental market.

Yes, timing really does matter in real estate investing...

Whether it is a single family home or a 4 plex, it is still one sewer line, one roof, one gardener bill, one tree trimming, etc. that cost the same no matter what.Best of luck!