But if they don’t even bother to fill out the forms to apply, or get a basic job to make ends meet, or borrow money from family or friends/ somebody else besides you, then they can’t stay.

It sounds like you’ve navigated some serious challenges while staying committed to your long-term investment goals, which is a testament to your resilience.The current market definitely presents challenges, but it also holds opportunities—especially for investors who take a strategic, long-term approach.

It's important to stay informed about developments in the areas you're considering, as well as any potential changes in regulations or economic conditions.

Just personally, I would never do an absentee landlord kinda thing....Too many moving parts, too much to go wrong and cuts into your profit big-time....Sentimental value is one thing, but not if you end up hating the house down the road.....Stay local, plenty of opportunities in good ole AZ.....

✅ Pros: Lower costs, better cash flow, diversification, scalability⚠ Cons: Harder management, reliance on local teams, financing challengesTips:Visit the market first and build a trusted team (agent, PM, contractor).Choose landlord-friendly states with strong rental demand.Consider a low-maintenance property for your first deal.If staying local, you gain hands-on experience, but out-of-state investing can work with proper due diligence.2.

We had hoped to rent our house for short-term or mid-term stays.

Are you looking to stay in the city? 

I guess a few others could have stayed to encourage and educate the new investors for whatever reason.

@Amir Portal  I think you should stay open to all areas. 

Without my wife's direct involvement, I think some of our homes would have struggled to stay afloat.