I also assume you do not have ample cash, so reserves would be even tighter and you'll be bleeding monthly on it cash flow wise.

With $330/m in cash flow, unless you have sufficient reserves set aside those funds should remain as liquid as possible in the event of repairs or cap ex.

If you're a single mom with student loans, a car payment, and living paycheck-to-paycheck, then $20,000 would be devastating and a reserve is critical.

I want to remain local in NJ or at most drive down 1hr to PA (self-manage or, last resort, hire a PM)However, I must also consider maintaining reserves, a safety net for my primary home, and an emergency fund.It's just hard for a new investor now :(

Capital gains are federally taxed at 15-20%, depending on your income, and may also incur state taxes.

you may have to save up until you have enough money to do so - down payment, closing costs, reserves, etc.House Hacking: What Is It, How to Start, and Strategies for Successit's a more powerful way to get started. 

Reserves: Do you have enough cash reserves to handle unexpected costs or delays in refinancing?

simple question to ask, are investor dividends being paid out of net operating income or reserves? 

Hi Zoe in Milwaukee, Wisconsin-You have $25,000 to invest and you would like to scale your portfolio efficiently and wonder what the best approach would be to do that.First off, congratulations on starting your investing journey and having $25,000 to invest.If you could find something near you with equity when you buy it, then house hacking will get you into a property with the lowest amount down--make sure to leave room for reserves and repairs in your budgeting and then refinance as soon as you can to pull money out to buy the next house the same way and keep the first and so on.If that is not possible near you because of prices or other factors, then I would look at buying a BRRRR in a market like Lansing, MI.

Here are some key elements to include:Lease Agreements: Ensure your contracts reflect the latest laws, such as notice periods for entry or rules around security deposits.Fair Housing Compliance: Familiarize yourself with federal, state, and local fair housing laws to avoid discriminatory practices.Property Standards: Regularly inspect your properties to ensure they meet safety and habitability standards.Tax Documentation: Keep accurate records to comply with tax reporting requirements.4.