With rent control in NJ, yeah, it’s mostly a waiting game if tenants don’t leave.

I can tell they are both on top of their game.

So it's a waiting game for that property until you have enough to do a cash out refi.

Here are additional comments:1) Buying out of state removes any local knowledge you have from assisting in your success, including knowing areas, people and costs. - We always recommend buying your first rental locally if possible and DIY managing to learn as much as possible before investing OOS.2) Lots of crooks and incompetents in the PMC world:( They both cost you money.- As already stated, you'll have a small portfolio.

It will take almost 6 hours round trip just to drive to the project and that doesn’t include any other driving if going to building supply stores, building dept, lunch, other projects, visiting potential fixers, and etc.

Owning a duplex at 20 is a huge accomplishment, and it’s inspiring to see you’re already planning your next move.From my perspective, real estate investing is a long-term game focused on building equity, paying down debt, and maintaining stability over chasing short-term cash flow.

I’m talking about upper middle class quality furniture and furnishings withEVERYTHING included.  

You should be able to do a pretty decent update with $50k (purchase price not included).

You don't want to be so focused on getting into the game that you leverage the start of your entire life just to do it.

Dont waste your time game-planning.