In Charlotte, NC and in Charleston, SC, we have such an extreme lack of inventory, especially at the lower end of affordability- seller's aren't giving up their 2.99% interest rate to downsize and pay more for a home with a higher rate, so they are staying on the sidelines. and Builders cannot ramp up fast enough, and are being very cautious due to interest rates, coupled with inflation, where their goods and services also cost more to build homes- and, after 2008-2010, where many got burned, and badly, they are super cautious.

I have not been burned yet by this.

@Dave Meyer @J Scott  - we've got a burning Real Estate by the Numbers question for one of you two!

What's the best way to get involve in it to get some experience without burning much money? 

Proper due diligence is what often separates the aspiring real estate investors who crash and burn on their first deal, and those who build a successful portfolio.

Even the fire pit in the evening with a fire burning might be nicer than the plain shot from the front.  

Last, but not least, one should consider the 'burn out' factor.

Go right ahead... burn your money, others have more common sense! 

It's been a crash and burn learn process but I still started getting reservations within 2 months and a LTR that will be with me until next year. 

I have seen many people burned AFTER they buy a property, because they assume.