However, between the work-from-home ability and the recent crime spike in D.C. post covid, many businesses have moved just outside the city to areas like Alexandria and Arlington, which in their own regard already had thriving business environments.This macro trend, along with the massive amount of economic and infrastructure development happening in Alexandria will lead to massive rent growth and home price appreciation over time. 

I have $55K in the stock market at the moment and plan to save (and grow) the remaining in the stock market until I have enough to pay off the entire mortgage. 

Your dilemma boils down to two priorities: maximizing your investment growth versus creating financial stability for your personal residence.

How would you make it grow the quickest?

Sacramento seems to have a lot of inventory and buildable land which will increase supply keeping rent growth slow. 

Areas with infrastructure growth and new development are excellent targets for long-term value.Key Tip: Adaptability is essential in 2025.

I even had preventative maintenance set up, but the root growth rate was unpredictable.

Find a property that makes sense financially, in an area of potential growth, ANYWHERE in the U.S., and in your analysis account for slightly higher PM fees.  

With a long-term hold strategy, this property should continue building wealth through appreciation, equity, and potential rent growth.

Economic Timing.According to data compiled by Marcus & Millichap[2], the Portland area has experienced three very important trends since 2010:The average price per unit for apartments has nearly doubledThe rate of employment growth rose from 2010 to 2015 but has since declined steadily, projected to be up 1% for 2020 (estimated before COVID-19)Roughly 30,000 apartments have been built since 2010, with another 5,600 units slated for construction in 2020Most RHA members have enjoyed a solid decade of price growth, rent growth and steady occupancy.