Are there better markets or hybrid approaches I should consider (e.g., smaller multifamily properties that accept Section 8 tenants)?

incredible!

The slow and steady approach is fine for this property but it feels like a waste to sit on a low performing asset and assuming rent increase is a strong enough lever to pull on for FI.

Unfortunately, it's now going to get more complicated:(There are two types of approaches PMCs use to bill for maintenance:1) In-house ServiceTechs on the payroll, so owners are billed for their time by the hour.While the labor charges above are useful, they don't cover the true costs a PMC incurs, like:- Payroll costs for FICA, Social Security, Medicare, etc. that typically add 25-40% to the hourly rate- Medical insurance costs for the worker- Payroll processing costs to handle all of the above- Liability insurance costs in case worker damages something or injures someone- Workman's Compensation insurance- Costs of vehicles and tools- and more...Typically the management contract will disclose the total hourly rate an owner will be charged.

For us approaching retirement age, we want to have a mix of mortgaged properties and properties with full equity to leverage instead of relying on saving up for the next investment. 

A friend of mine in Austin once negotiated a partial buy back option when the seller realized they might want back in if the market soared.. from what I read in Bloomberg, that approach can work well if both sides trust each other.If the tenants’ rent covers your carrying costs, that’s a nice cushion, but you still need to clarify that buy back clause.

., acquiring a fixer-upper SFH) would be incredibly helpful.Thanks again for your thoughtful advice!

If you want to find out how much equity you have to see if that’s an option for you, connect with a real estate agent and ask for a professional equity assessment report (PEAR).Who knows, you may find out you have enough equity to buy your next place outright– and with today’s mortgage rates, not having to take out a home loan is pretty incredible.

Here are some indicators to help you assess a buyer's seriousness:Questions: Serious buyers will ask detailed questions about the property, such as maintenance costs, neighborhood amenities, and property taxesStrong Offer: If a buyer makes a strong offer quickly, it often indicates a high level of interest and intent to purchasePrivate Buyers: If approached by a private buyer, ensure they provide a Letter of Intent (LOI) and proof of funds.  

Can try to reposition to Class B, but neighborhood may impede these efforts.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, but 15-20% should be used to also cover tenant nonpayment, eviction costs & damages.Tenant Pool: majority will have FICO scores of 560-620 (approaching 22% probability of default), many blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 2 years.