Fortunately it was a location with a PSF of ~$1.5k, so I added more than $100k of valuation (suspect I may not have quite achieved my $2 added for every $1 spent).But the bigger issue I see, if I add $200k of equity at hopefully a cost of no more than $100k it seems like maybe a good brrrr but what if it has expenses on a sustained hold that results in negative $1k/month?  

I feel like I’m missing the bigger picture of what makes a property a great investment opportunity.If anyone could share some pointers or insights on how to identify a “good deal,” I’d really appreciate it!

I recognize there are other ways I could invest this cash (including another property) but I am being mindful of levering myself out too much in the current environment where job losses are more common in my industry (tech).

I have been an avid listener of Bigger Pockets podcast since 2020 and am very hopeful I can finally begin my real estate journey sometime this year either in state or out of state (or Both!)

Hi Brandi,Welcome to Bigger Pockets! 

Is it provided by PreREO and who is the loss payee?

Has anybody recommendations of cheap markets to buy rentals where we a young couple could peotentially live in vicinity to a good job market/bigger city? 

@Timothy FinneyWelcome to Bigger Pockets! 

Once you narrow it down, start with small jobs to test their reliability and quality before giving them bigger projects.Building a solid network takes time, but having dependable people on call is a lifesaver for your rentals.

Hi @Max Martynenko, Welcome to bigger pockets.