That means they are affordable for owners and investors alike and may have some appeal for growth. 

It's an amazing market here with so much incoming growth due to population growth, job growth, and companies moving/developing here!

My biz partner and I 100% believe community and building authentic relationships in the real estate space is so important for growth.

Since you prioritize appreciation over cash flow, focus on DFW areas with strong job growth, infrastructure investment, and limited housing supply—such as Frisco, Arlington, and Rockwall.

In high barrier markets, rents have gotten stronger but not the double digit growth we had seen, which was an anomaly.  

Like you, I’m diving into books and podcasts, but I also believe there’s immense value in learning alongside others and gaining hands-on experience.I’m in the process of connecting with like-minded individuals to create a community of new investors who are eager to learn, share knowledge, and even collaborate on deals.

Phoenix contains a rare combination of elements that have created an outstanding market for distressed property investments, including the following:Cost Savings: Distressed properties are sold below their market value and enable investors to take hold of properties at a trifle compared to traditionally listed properties.Strong Market Fundamentals: Being among the fastest-growing cities in the country, Phoenix ensures a high demand in housing and rentals, hence good potential for resale or income from rentals.Value Creation Opportunities: Most distressed properties need renovations; thus, such situations present opportunities for investors to increase equity by adding value.Population and Economic Growth: Phoenix remains among those cities in the country which are attracting more and more residents and business; therefore, this presents good, long-term appreciation possibilities of property appreciation and income creation.Challenges to ConsiderWhile the rewards can be great, distressed property investment is not without its challenges.

rents flat or rent growth? 

Investors who are active in gathering data on local trends while working with knowledgeable agents are able to pick neighbourhoods poised for growth and also comprehend how to best mitigate their risks as they prepare to maximize their return.Myth 3: Distressed Properties Are in Bad LocationsAnother misconception is that distressed properties only exist in bad neighborhoods.

If you're open to $120-180k, I would recommend looking into Columbus Ohio as it does have much better growth and appreciation potential than Cleveland and Dayton.