Quote from @Stephanie Lopez: I have been listening to different podcasts and some mention that high-end competitive markets like Orange County, California could make it difficult to start an investing business.

As e-commerce competition intensifies, Philadelphia-area malls are turning to experience-focused retailers to draw shoppers back.

Competition creates FoMO.

To prepare, focus on saving for a strong down payment and maintaining a solid credit profile, as both are critical for competitive financing.If possible, look into FHA or conventional loan options for owner-occupied properties, which may offer favorable terms, especially for first-time buyers.

Despite one of the best cashflow and being t he 3rd most competitive market for renters we don't have a national rental company here (except Grape Vine dabbling a little)

Buyers are out there, and with fewer investors jumping in due to concerns, there's less competition snagging those good deals.If you're considering moving forward, connecting with someone who knows the Tampa scene inside and out could be a game-changer.

There are a lot of owners that have great purchase prices and 3 to 4% Interest rates that bought 5, 10 or more years ago.If you want to jump into the STR market game now in competitive markets you better run your numbers conservatively and you need an appealing location and property to be competitive. 

After the election and purported rate cut(s) from the FED, I expect buying activity to pick up rather noticeably, which means more competition and likely higher prices. 

Factors such as competition, food trends, lack of management, ingress etc, can close these stores. 

Price your home $50 - $100 cheaper than all the competition, and you'll attract lookers.