Stick to areas you know well; this familiarity can greatly reduce risk and boost your confidence when making purchasing decisions. 2.

And if your investor friend’s private loan helps fill in any gaps, it might be worth considering that short-term pain for long-term stability.What do you think you’d focus on first... paying off that line of credit as fast as possible or jumpstarting the renovation to boost cash flow right away? 

Most investors seem to want to use leverage to boost returns. 

@Jewell ArceneauxFrom my experience, focusing on impactful upgrades like kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and curb appeal yields the best results.

Small upgrades or re-leasing to market rents could boost your cash flow and provide additional funds for your San Diego purchase.If you'd like, I can connect you with a lender or help you explore potential properties in your preferred areas to see what’s realistic within your budget.

You aren't trying to nickel and dime people but just to curb abuse so it should be generous.

It's a valuable repair and boosts your ARV which is everything when doing a BRRRR. 

.- Someone talked about crime and hard tenants (who don't pay - usually inherited ones)- not many economic opportunities to attract pool of people and boost area etcI'm looking at houses on both sides (Canada and USA) US, they are cheaper like 731 Pine Ave, Niagara FAlls NY 14301 going for $270,000 (5/2, 2700sq ft) but on Can side, it's like houses are in the US$400K - smaller sq ft.

None of those areas have excess housing.I question if housing is going to see a boost in value over the near term due to not having enough housing to accommodate the displaced fire victims.  

Talk to a CPA for advice based on your goals.Reinvestment: Instead of paying off properties quickly, reinvest your cash flow into more properties to grow your portfolio faster.Rent Increase: Look for opportunities to increase rents or add value to your current property to boost cash flow.Consider focusing on multi-family properties for better passive income.