The IRS is taking a more conservative approach and you want to ensure you have all your ducks in a row + a team behind you to back you up if something comes into question.

Since they are responsible for maintaining the relationship with you after the transaction closes, this approach adds an extra layer of confidence and security to your investment.If you can't find an investor agent that you like or trust that is also a Property Manager or works under a brokerage that has a Property Management Division, I would ask the agent if they recommend a Property Management Company.

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.

@Carlos OlarteCarlos, that’s a smart approach—ADUs and JADUs are great ways to boost cash flow, especially in high-demand areas like Orange County and Long Beach.

Countless problems.

The weekly rentals were $8,000 (June) & $8,500 (July-August) As the summer season rental is approaching us, we are faced with a tough decision.

Over the years, we’ve built relationships, closed countless deals, grown businesses with fellow BP members, and helped others get started—all from meeting people here on the forums.The Lehigh Valley is a fantastic market to kick off your journey.

@Jennifer Fernéz I run sum numbers for you with our tool, see comments and pics below before refinancing and post refinancing .Financial Breakdown: Purchase Price: $200,000 Mortgage (LTV 80%): $160,000 Interest Rate: 6% (30-Year Amortization) Mortgage Monthly Payment: $959Upfront Costs: Down Payment (20%): $40,000 Closing Costs (3.5%): $7,000 Renovation Costs: $15,000 1 Month of Carrying Costs During Renovation: $1,548Total Upfront Required: $63,548Year One Rent: Monthly Rent Income: $2,000 1 Month Rent Losses during renovations (-$2,000): -$167/month distributed over 12 months Total Rent Income: $22,000 per year => $ 1,833 per monthMonthly Expenses: Mortgage Payment: $959 Property Tax (Assuming $3,000/year): $250 per month Property Insurance (Assumption): $100 per month Utilities (Hydro, Gas, Water): $275 per month Assuming 5% Vacancy: $92 Assuming 0 % Repairs & Maintenance first year because unit has been recently renovated Total Monthly Expenses: $1,676Monthly Net Cash Flow: $157Post-Renovation Refinancing Strategy after 12 months:So far, we’ve purchased the property, completed renovations, and rented it out.Next, you can approach the bank for a refinance to consolidate a portion of your initial investment into a mortgage.

This is why I prefer the cash-for-keys approach.

As an investor and realtor I took the opposite approach.