I'm just gradually deleveraging, this next time by likely buying all in cash, and continuing to not lever my properties until cap rates are lower than interest rates... unless I can get cheap and low leverage debt through assumption.

Great points from @Doug Smith and some I will be leveraging in my own work.We do some "pitching" of startups to landlords and while not a 1:1 comparison we generally also leverage the credibility of the team or consultants that the startup is using to mitigate their risk. 

Don’t out more leverage on another asset since we are talking REI.  

Then with the more expensive homes, you leverage.

He does 65% leverage maybe 70% but doesn't matter how low purchase price is. 

@Guenevere F.When I started in rental property investing, I found it crucial to set clear goals, leverage existing skills, and focus on scaling gradually.

A good real estate accountant can save you thousands of dollars by leveraging entity selection and formation, tax deductions, cost segregations, bonus depreciation and tax planning.I recommend finding an accountant who specializes in real estate taxation, business taxation, financial planning and tax planning.You may want to consider working with your accountant remotely to expand your options.I would also recommend looking for a accountant willing to work with you throughout the year.

I am now seeing how the REI Nation process works from start to finish and as someone who also owns my own rental portfolio here in Memphis in what I consider solid neighborhoods but also used leverage to purchase, sometimes your cashflow gets evaporated due to CAPEX and there isn't always rhyme or reason to it.

Thanks for advice.High-demand short-term rental markets like Orlando, FL, Phoenix, AZ, and Nashville, TN are great for house hacking because you can leverage the high occupancy rates for STRs to offset your mortgage.

Work with a CPA for tax strategies, leverage each partner's strengths, and keep communication open while maintaining detailed records and hiring professionals to streamline operations.Good luck!