Here’s what I recommend:Cash Investments:No Debt, No Stress: With cash, you avoid third-party control and loan vetting, giving you full control of returns.Equity Builders: Partnering with builders often reduces your property entry cost by up to 20% below market value.Consistent 10% Returns: With an all-cash approach, achieving 10% ROI is realistic and efficient.Financing Strategy:If cash isn’t feasible, consider a balanced financing model:40-50% Down Payment: Keep leverage manageable while maximizing returns.Lower Debt Exposure: A conservative loan-to-value ratio (LTV) reduces risks and keeps returns stable.Work with a Builder: Collaboration with builders can lower acquisition costs and increase your ROI.Key Takeaways:If possible, prioritize cash for simplicity, control, and consistent returns.Financing can work well with a disciplined approach to debt and a strong underwriting process.Partnering with builders offers opportunities to reduce costs and enhance your portfolio’s profitability. 

If you do it right, it’s arguably the best market to invest.Purchase: $80k-$130kRent: $1100-$1500 (no rent control in MI)1% rule: .9%-1.4% rule dealsCoc ROI: 5-12%Total ROI: 20-40%Cash flow: $50-$250/door (after all expenses and budgeting for maint, capex, vacancy)Appreciation: 3-10%+ (has been double digit for a decade)Location: C+, B-These numbers are based on the “sweet spot” in Metro Detroit.

If you’re still concerned, you could consider installing programmable thermostats or low-flow fixtures to help control costs without relying entirely on tenant behavior. 

Watch videos by andreas antonopolous on YouTube Wired andreas antonopolous Money as a system of control andreas antonopolous Fake money fake news andreas antonopolousThis is the internet applied to money.

A quality deal you have control (under contract, seller only wants to work with you, etc.)3.) 

@Matthew HoldenDo you have checkbook control or full custodial SDIRA?   

He may get stuck with rent control laws that prevent him from catching up later. 

So although you have HOA dues, sometimes it isn't enough and you don't have control over that cost (if it goes up, special assessments, etc.).2.

Offer the design team a piece of the equity OR pay a premium as incentive to keep to an established timeline (that is within their control). 

I'm a partner at Launch Control and a former Batch user.