If you buy in a city with limited appreciation, every investment dollar must come from your savings, which is beyond the reach of most investors.Income continuity.

Thanks again for your input, and I'll probably reach out as I get further along in the process.Hi @Edward Zachary Samperio, the regulations aren't that difficult and I'd be happy to give you a quick rundown about the density limits, hotel occupancy taxes, permitting, etc.

They don't have to be complicated or expensive to set up but can help limit your exposure and shield other assets in the event someone wants to come after that.

When you say country subdivision do you mean outside city limits, or just not a large city?

And to really take care of your mom use your annual gift limits to gift back to her the rent she pays. 

Sometimes the tenant just doesn't know about them or their situation limits their ability to apply.

Valuing your time and understanding your limits and skills will make a big difference in the equity you build, the quality of the work and your sanity. 

If you want to develop it, I can refer you a lender that will lend on a completed subject to appraisal but you'll be limited if you just want it for the lot.If you simply want the land as part of your property, you have more options including a HELOC which you can still use for development down the road. 

Most suburban cities have VERY limited lots and most of those are zoned R-1, meaning only a single-unit house can be built.In the City of Detroit, it's cheaper to buy one and rehab than build!

.- If you hold a rental until death, you can pass it on with a stepped-up cost basis, limiting captial gains if then sold (limited by inheritance tax limitations).Too many newbies on this site trying to replace their day job income via "passive" real estate investing w/o digging deep enough to understand how it really works.