As a General Contractor myself here in east central Texas, I can tell you that connecting with local GCs via Facebook groups can be incredibly helpful.

Costs vary but can range from $1,000 – $3,000 per unit.Water/Sewer: This is more complex and may require approval from your local water authority.

In 2022 the rents increased 12.1% year over year which was the 3rd highest in the entire country per https://www.axios.com/local/cleveland/2023/02/14/cleveland-rent-prices.

@Kayla Elliott  Hi Kayla - this was a commercial mortgage loan with a local bank, that held it "in house" after it was issued. 

I bought 6 unit property in Wildwood,NJ,in November 2024, doing rehab now,  should be done by May 2025I am planning to subdivide 6 unit building to 6 separate condos and sell fall 2026, , if there are any experts in 1031 that can help me?!

I'd ask for referrals, and reach out to some local folks and see what is working and not.Best of luck!

It’s crucial to have local market knowledge or work with someone who does.

Any tips or tools for evaluating the local market would be greatly appreciated.

I am leaning on local first for my next investment, but not ruling out an out-of-market opportunity. 

Focus on smaller single-family homes, condos with low HOA fees, or multi-family properties in these regions, and build a reliable local team of agents, property managers, and other professionals to ensure a smooth investing experience.