Even if the rental has a decent cash flow with additional flood insurance, we're still not sure we want to take on that risk as we are out-of-state investors (planning to move back to KY in the future, but not now) and we don't like that it will potentially bring down the perceived value when we try to sell it in the future.The seller has never lived there and has not provided any information on if it has flooded before or not. 

I’m looking to buy land in Tennessee, but I live in New York and know nothing about what neighborhoods in Tennessee to look at and which to stay away from.

When it comes to a lifestyle property, it's another ball game and all the comments you wrote make total sense, especially for people who like similar things in life.

Find one that fits with your life and how much effort/capital you have.

I’m Mark, a new real estate investor based in San Diego, leveraging my background in AI-driven lead generation to find off-market deals.I’m currently looking for small multifamily properties (duplexes, triplexes, or quads) to rehab and house hack, to build long-term cash flow while living in the property.Outside of real estate, I’m into fitness, golf, and exploring San Diego’s best outdoor spots.

Yes, the initial plan was to purchase a single-family home, renovate it, expand, and live in it.

I stuck to it and it has treated me well over the years.I did not start investing ( other than buying a home to live in) till many years later..

Virtually everyone lives somewhere especially true for those that pay taxes (in CA property and income tax).  

Explore my personal favorites, Set For Life by Scott Trench or The Total Money Makeover by Dave Ramsey, for invaluable financial insights.3.

@Christopher Reynolds My mantra has always been, "Live where you want to live; invest where it makes sense."