Gradually scale by researching high-growth markets, partnering with experienced investors, and exploring financing options like SBA loans.

Happy to share insights if you’re open to exploring a market like Detroit.

That said, I'm grateful for the alternatives you present--you're keeping the bottom line in mind, so I appreciate your help in exploring options that achieve the bottom line for the investors. 

Since it sounds like you have strong W2 income and would probably be okay paying the mortgage sometimes, I'd even explore a 5-10% down payment option.

Have you and your wife considered exploring fully turnkey properties as an option?

I’ve been exploring buy and hold opportunities in my area, and I recently came across a situation I’d like some advice on.I’ve come across a property in my area that I’m very interested in, but I want to make sure I approach the situation the right way.

Feel free to DM me if you'd like more insights on all this (we don't do biz in Alabama so got nothing to lose).Here's some other "copy & paste" advice on how to search for a better PMC:----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

It was a humbling experience, knowing he chose me over his previous agent.Success in this business takes time, but as I tell my kids, honesty, integrity, and accountability will take you far and help you sleep well at night.Best of luck!

However, given that we anticipate completing this project well before that timeframe, I’m exploring alternative solutions to better align with our timeline to get our investment back soonerThank you again for your assistance! 

This would buy time to improve cash flow or explore better refinancing options.Ask Your Lender: Would they consider lowering the rate temporarily or extending the loan period while you stabilize cash flow?