I am sure there are other good choices out there, but strongly recommend them.Stessa is lacking tenant communications and maintenance tracking, but overall stands up pretty well as free, or nearly free.Buildium is pricey and has a learning curve, but if you are going to exceed 20 units, definitely look to migrating to a real professional package like buildium

If you added in the cash you should have to protect against contingencies, the actual return goes down (or the risk sykrockets, your choice)- If the $300K properties cashflow, definitely a better bet. 

You have a choice in STR. 

I’d like to buy the place, renovate it, and then live in it for a few years as my primary while renting out the 2/1, and then ultimately selling or renting out the main house too. wondering what the best purchase strategy would be considering I don’t have the full purchase price in cash on hand?

Rebranding properties with poor reputations can also be a valuable strategy to attract new tenants.By implementing these strategies, you can lower expenses, increase efficiency, and ultimately boost your property's income.

The fear of unknown and the bad potentials, but then sh_t happens and ya remember that we got a choice to lay down and be done in by it or roll-up the sleeves and get to work and be a solution maker. 

The situation you are ultimately trying to avoid is the one where: the borrower defaults, you start foreclosure, the borrower fights the foreclosure and says they didn't understand the loan / could never afford to pay it / you didn't follow the consumer rules, etc, then the judge asks if you followed those rules and you can't show that.... 

@Gabriella PellolioWhat is your ultimate goal with your investment properties? 

Beautiful renovation and design choices!

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