Putting it all together: If I were starting over and looking for a house-hack in Denver, CO today, I'd be looking for a 4 bed / 3 bath property in the $500K - $600K range in an up and coming area (like Aurora near the medical campus).

I'd rely on her to handle much of the day-to-day management.Given this, we're leaning toward a single-family home where we can comfortably rent a room to someone we trust.

There are markets today, even with high rates, that are cash flow positive and do have great appreciation. 

And, FMV on 1/6/25 is not FMV today because now you don't have a lot in an established neighborhood, you have a lot in a disaster area which comes with the challenges I listed above.We built about three dozen "fire lot" homes after our fire--all lots acquired off MLS or from owners that came to us (we didn't market for lots), and not at a price that anyone would call a "discount". 

I saw some properties today, only one of which I thought had potential, but an offer would have to be pretty low to hit the 70% rule which is the goal.

What I disagree with is VRBO's blanketed take on pricing when it comes from a 3rd Party, which is something that was mentioned on the phone today. 

I wanted a truly hands-off, white-glove experience and, after extensive research, REI Nation seemed to be a reputable choice based on investor feedback.Fast forward to today—I now own multiple properties with them, and here’s my candid review.The GoodCrisis Management:My first property with REI Nation came just before the infamous three-year rollercoaster.

anyone have any experience with Walter Wofford and his short term rental education programs?

Quote from @Kathy Kifer: I'm so glad I stumbled across this today.

Today, you are likely to get a rate at 8 to 10 percent.