The only advantage to this approach is to use the retirement funds without incurring taxes right now (ie UBIT), so compounding.

I’m curious to hear how others are approaching their 2025 planning.

Hoping" for me was never a strategy as the future is unpredictable.I hoped my $480,000 condo in Chicago would appreciate and it didn't move since 2018.My tenant a crypto exec has been paying me $3,000 in rent on the 28th of each month like clockwork for 5 years now.No capex, no issues at all and that has been a breeze.3% ROI isn't sexy enough to me tho 🤷‍♂️I'd probably be cheering right now if it moved up in value but it's been a dead deal in my eyes.But it is what it is.The numbers in a deal TODAY per se don't rely on hope and are a more predictable outcome.Granted, the numbers need to be "worked" and a more "hands on" approach is needed in such markets.Thanks Hi Engelo, you have been doing this for a long time and I know you have the skills and tenacity to manage high-cash-flow properties, but you have to admit, you are working hard for your cash flow, this is not passive at all.

With the data-driven approach Neal developed, Grocapitus has a strong track record based on the actual return investors received.

Of course I always approach the market with a higher rent value. 

Does this approach make sense as a first step for us?

Do you see any cases where a non-professional could safely participate in one of these with the right approach?

Can try to reposition to Class B, but neighborhood may impede these efforts.Vacancy Est: Historically 10%, but 15-20% should be used to also cover tenant nonpayment, eviction costs & damages.Tenant Pool: majority will have FICO scores of 560-620 (approaching 22% probability of default), many blemishes, but should have no evictions in last 2 years.

Investing does need to be approached more like a business than just a simple stock trade.

If these type of damages occur in the future, I would recommend holding the tenants deposit, or if there is a claim to be made through the insurance you sell them you could approach that avenue.