I will be very careful with my first investment if I were you, unless you have a rich father or uncle who is willing to finance your mistake.

Some folks have already given good advice, and I want to add a quick tip for how to get data on potential STR properties.

With our unique model we allow those to scale quite quickly. 

Real estate is one of the best mind-sharpening exercises in the investment world simply because getting it wrong there is no stock liquidation or quick way out.

If you are in the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton market, you used to be able to get duplexes for $50k to $100k and make it cash flow quickly.

I don’t want anything in return—just hoping to network, make new friends, and maybe be of help or value to you in any way.If you're up for grabbing a quick lunch, coffee, or beer (on me!)

I would try to portion that off as a separate loan that can be paid back quickly - you'd need to discuss your plan with the PML.

It is invaluable to quickly calculate a mortgage payment.3.

To get things done as quick as possible , charging by the hour cost the contractor money , charging by the push/inch  is the most profitable way to do snow . 

I was chatting with some of my lending buddies at big banks and they are all backing away from the CRE space including office because operating costs are increasing more quickly than rents.