I have been on New Western's deal list as well as another bigger local company and everytime I underwrite these deals there is very very minimal left on the bone let alone contingency funds for going over budget on the flip...

Real estate is local.

Accessibility and local knowledge above everything else. 

Most local banks and credit unions will have free accounts.You need two accounts: checking and savings. 

I have been following the Real Estate Investing industry for a while and just recently decided to put my focus into it and implement a plan I had in mind for years.So I went down to Puerto Vallarta I put together a team of local realtors, brokers, contractors, property managers and a lawyer. 

It forced me to reach out to developers, to engineers dozens of local builders and most important like minded individuals.

Unless you use a local professional familiar with the market, who you trust, best way to know a good deal is to study the market.

Also, you could also hang out at some local ice rinks where people take their kids to hockey practice!

However this is something that will for sure affect MF construction this year and sfr is these Tarrifs hold.In the NW I know a lot of lumber comes from CA / BC to be specific but my lumber packages for homes i build in Charleston SC are pine so I know it local wood .. but you know the lumber brokers they will gouge if they get any chance to do so

Having reasonable expectations, hiring a local professional (Realtor or PM), doing your research, and doing everything right (i.e. pro photos, professional design, good renovation, proper amenities and location, etc) are the keys to success in 2025.