For the longest time, I almost always bought locally. 

Where I live in SC you HAVE to have local knowledge to make things work. 

There are plenty of people looking to deploy cash into real estate but don’t have the knowledge or bandwidth to run a successful flip or BRRRR.

To maximize your investment, use financing options like FHA or conventional loans, analyze deals based on cash flow and cap rates, and network with local investors through REI meetups and BiggerPockets.Good luck!

Staying ahead of the game by understanding how local regulations align with state bills like SB-9, SB-684, and SB-423 can open doors to exciting development projects.SB-9: Simplifying Lot Splits and Duplex BuildsSB-9 streamlines the process for lot splits and duplex construction, offering a straightforward way to increase property value and expand housing options.SB-684: More Flexibility for Smaller ProjectsFor urban lots under 5 acres, SB-684 makes it easier to pursue smaller housing developments, transforming overlooked properties and vacant lots into productive investments.SB-423: Faster Approvals, Fewer HeadachesNo one likes endless waiting.

Purchase price: $130,000 Cash invested: $9,000 Sale price: $185,000 I did not have the knowledge then to keep the property and pull money out to complete renovations to another property we purchased a year after this one that required a complete overhaul.

Talk to your local building department for the codes they follow and requirement(s).

City won't let you rent out basement, but owner can live in basement.It may suck for 1-2 years, but then you'll have gained so much knowledge you can do better on the next one!

The Yale Law Journal article, "Zoned Out: How Zoning Law Undermines Family Law’s Functional Turn," highlights this issue, noting that while family law has evolved to recognize diverse family structures, zoning laws have lagged behind, potentially hindering innovative housing solutions like co-living.Challenges for Co-Living InvestorsFor real estate investors interested in co-living, these restrictive definitions can lead to:Legal Barriers: Difficulty obtaining permits or approvals for co-living spaces due to non-compliance with traditional family definitions in zoning codes.Operational Challenges: Potential fines or legal disputes arising from housing arrangements that don't conform to local zoning definitions of a household.Market Limitations: Reduced ability to meet the growing demand for affordable, shared housing solutions.Advocacy for ReformThe Bloomberg article, "Why Are Zoning Laws Defining What Constitutes a Family?"

We’ve been actively investing in the Upstate NY region, and I’d love to share some insights about the local market, especially areas like Albany, Schenectady, and Troy/, which can offer great opportunities for investors.In terms of your budget and goals, there are definitely deals in Upstate NY, and with the right knowledge and strategy, it can be a very lucrative place to invest.