Cold calling is a great idea to get started, but maybe try connecting with local real estate groups or online forums too—they can sometimes have off-market deals.

You might find a local credit union or community bank that will go to 95 -100%.At one point I called 2 different VA Regional Loan Centers regarding this section in the VA lenders handbook:Assumability - The second mortgage should not restrict theVeteran’s ability to sell the property any more thanthe VA first mortgage.

It seems there’s a common misconception largely influenced by social media, online courses, and influencers who oversimplify the process that real estate is an easy, passive way to generate income with minimal effort.

Also, HomeReady/HomePossible (Conventional loans) can be just as favorable for househacking but also bring Conventional Conforming income guidelines to the deal, rather than the more restrictive FHA guidelines. 

There may be restrictions on when you can exit and how you exit.

Go to the city and county of your prospective STR and ask for the deed restrictions and/or municipal code, for the specific property.

Plus, it integrates seamlessly with accounting tools like QuickBooks, making bookkeeping much more straightforward.Whichever account you choose, look for one with no monthly fees, online banking, and features like automatic bill pay.

I do not know this one specifically but most courses and coaches online are a borderline scam.Couldn’t agree more.

But 2025 offers other opportunities that did not exist 10 or even 5 years ago - think AI and online businesses.

These are features like online renter payments, tenant portal (for payments and work orders), help keeping track of work orders, tax reporting features, and accounting functionality.