If it's just slapped in the backyard, i'd imagine it may not make a big difference but if you create an environment around it, it could be different.   

Vet potential partners carefully and aim for relationships that can grow with your portfolio.In this higher interest rate environment, focus on cash flow and creative financing options like the HomeStyle rehab loan or seller financing.

But if you’re looking for a more stable, family-friendly environment with lower costs and a focus on LTRs, Texas could be a better fit.Since you have young kids, I’d dig deeper into school districts and neighborhoods in both states—family life can really shape where you’ll feel at home.

Self storage based on aself service model can be done while your golfing, out fishing, ortraveling.

You definitely should network with them.Relationships are very important in this environment.

In today's tougher economic environment, I have recently experienced two cash calls.  

So, it's still a viable way of investing, but does not have the same scale of success in today's economic environment in higher appreciation markets.

Lenders desperately need/want business especially in this interest rate environment (right now, the main source of mortgage loan business in Florida is rehab financing as a result of the hurricane damages) and one way the big players differentiate themselves is by streamlining the process.

If you can get a big 4-5 BR house with a view for a under a million bucks, i'm pretty confident you can cash flow it with a good return, even in a 6%-7% interest rate environment. 

Land is cheap and the regulatory environment is favorable.