(I recently saw an article in Forbes talking about the Bay Area’s shifting market) And if you aim to hold properties long term, keep your eyes on towns around the Bay that have had consistent rent growth.Here in my home market of Phoenix, I see investors branching out to places like Austin, Chicago, and even Omaha from what Ive heard because they recognize how trends can shift quickly.

The reality is that this isn't people crashing on the couch while we're out of town anymore. 

The title company that was used for this transaction held things up and unfortunately, we had no control over that.

I hope you or someone is at least keeping an eye on your properties for break ins, squatters, roof leaks, temperature control, frozen pipes (if in cold climate), if you have a basement and sump pump goes out leading to water damage etc.I just talked to two investors in California that have let their properties sit vacant (no mortgages so paying property taxes and insurance).

Flipping remotely is even a worse idea - you have no control over the scene and will likely be exploited because of it.  

A number years ago, I went to town buying a bunch of rentals in a short period of time and I can assure you they took money from my family instead of putting money in my family pocket.

Since we're In a college town, a majority of our travel demand revolves around the Texas A&M University and the university's events.

For practitioners in the real estate industry, the biggest challenge is not just the difficult work, high risks, or immense pressure, but the necessity to learn to let go of complete control over outcomes.

I'm a Realtor with a couple properties listed in Boise, ID and a neighboring town for my investor/client that are currently rented as co-living or rent-by-the-room and getting killer income. (7.3% - 9.5% Cap rate) So far, every inquiry has been baffled by the concept of co-living or rent-by-the-room and immediately ask if they're being run as a halfway-house (which they are not).

Installing thermostats with regulated heat control (we pay heat) 3.