If not, negotiate to buy it, get future cash flow secured, & take the next couple months to do the updates in between guests then get updated photos.

As I’m nearing retirement, I just invested a similar amount in first trust deeds secured by real estate at 9.75%.

I’ve had to widen my search radius to smaller suburbs or target properties needing light cosmetic work to make the numbers work.Value-add opportunities: Adding amenities tenants love, like finished basements or upgraded kitchens, seems to justify rent premiums in this market.Navigating the competition:Be creative with financing: Seller financing or partnering with other investors has been helpful to secure deals when conventional offers didn’t cut it.Work with local agents and wholesalers: They often have their finger on the pulse of off-market opportunities, which is critical in a hot market.For those new to suburban Chicago investing, I’d say the key is finding the “sweet spot” neighborhoods—ones on the rise but not yet maxed out in price.

Social Security also has a consent based ssn verification process where a SSN can be verified with the parties consent.Again, we can never be 100% full proof but we can stay on top of the latest ways to mitigate the fraudsters at their game.How are you catching fakes?

Since they are responsible for maintaining the relationship with you after the transaction closes, this approach adds an extra layer of confidence and security to your investment. 

I'm no expert, but do know for a fact that you are much more likely to find "good deals" off MLS – through mailing, cold calling, off market groups/connections, etc.

At the very least you'll always know where you stand in any given situation, something few investors are secure about.  

Consider all the things that could go wrong and see if the lease addresses them: unauthorized pets or tenants, early termination, security deposit, lease violations, late rent, eviction, lawn maintenance, parking, etc.5.

But if they gov't changes to a 90 day minimum, you would have to operate as a 90 day rental or longer.And talking to local experts, if you want to own a STR on O'ahu, your safest bet is to buy a unit in a Condotel that is located in the "Resort" zone of Waikiki.  

You want lower land cost with high rental demand unless you're a reno expert and flipper which not 1% of real investors are.