If you're open to purchasing out of state and hiring a property manager, you can find solid single-family rentals in lower cost-of-living markets.

I thought there was a chance that one could use real estate to directly lower their main source of taxable income (such as a w2).

The problem with vacancy is it assumes all products are the same, our 2 bedroom which is designed much better than our 3 bedroom and more thoroughly remodeled has lower vacancy.

This could lower your resale value. 

Crime in Little Rock is significantly lower than most cities it's the way the city is zoned it looks high based on the old city limits and population.

With growing tourism and lower competition, it’s a great way to maximize cash flow.- Creative Financing: Partnering with other investors, seller financing, or using HELOCs can help scale your portfolio faster while preserving your capital.- Land Development: Got an eye for raw land?

In a market like this where properties are sitting a bit longer, buyer demand is kind of stagnant, many appraisals have been coming in lower than anticipated.

I would remove debt to a 7-10 year time frame and lower fixed costs, at minimum.

I would tell people today that if you buy a primary residence expect to stay in that home for atleast five years, especially with a FHA loan which has lower down payment as the current forecasts for home appreciation or very low which with closing costs on the buy and sell, it will take several years to have equity in the property and enough to be able to sell, so that is something also to consider.

Smart thermostats, in particular, can help you monitor energy use and lower costs between stays.I hope everyone’s experiences and perspectives help guide you as you start this journey!