You could do what we call a consolidation exchange.A consolidation exchange is where you sell multiple investment properties to acquire a larger investment property or several newer properties in a 1031 exchange.

Investors can now leverage online platforms for property tours, market analysis, and property management, enabling them to overcome geographical barriers and diversify their portfolios.

You're going to learn A LOT from your first investment property so don't get discouraged.

.) - and then for a property, you need down payment + closing costs + reserves.  

In Charleston, I believe the rule is that you have to live on the property as your primary residence unless the property is in an STR overlay district.I personally know some investors who are starting to struggle a little with occupancy/bookings.

Definitely something I will keep in mind for my first property. 

That's the best way to get into investing; holding the property you own and renting it when buying another.

A group of us 4 investors are looking to form a partnership to purchase a property for commercial purposes and have a few questions about if we are going about this in the most efficient way.

we do not communicate at all with our tenants as we use property managers. 

- how much cheaper is it to rent than to live in a purchased property?