The total tax balance is about 18k.

I personally never would, but I would talk to people that have that can give you an idea of what it's actually like instead of getting opinions from everyone who never have and say it's the worst.Jacksonville, FL has been great from 2010-2022, but there has been a huge surge in building residential from 2020-2023, which severely impacted the supply and demand balance and rents have flattened or dropped from 2022-today.

My tenant friendly market (San Diego) has long term housing shortage that the tenant friendly laws mostly act as a balance of power. 

This transactional lender puts $40k in the pot (for some return which I am curious what they were promised) to get it back at closing as part of seller/lender#2 financing.At closing the first lets say is owed $50,000 so the $70k covers the first balance and closing costs.

@Ryan Kline You either have a balance sheet we all envy or you are an individual who has no confidence in their ability to be a good real estate operator.

I agree with @Brandon Rizzo I think the supply will normalize as the migration to Texas has not slowed down and as builders make correction to a more balanced supply and demand (along with interest rate improvement) housing market will be better.

One bad tenant or major maintenance expense can cost you $5,000 - $10,000.Your only hope is to hold the property long enough that rents increase or the home appreciates, but even that could take 10 years to balance out the losses you incur in the meantime.

And I feel you on the outdoors—gotta balance the grind. 

The loan balance will be amortized on a 30 year term with a 3% rate.

This may be easier to find in smaller towns or rural areas.Growth potential: Research areas with growing populations or emerging business districts.Tax incentives: Some localities offer incentives for small businesses or specific industries.Infrastructure: Ensure reliable internet and necessary utilities for your business.Potential locations to explore:Atlanta suburbs: Consider areas like Decatur, Marietta, or Lawrenceville for a balance of affordability and proximity to the city.South Carolina: Look into growing areas like Greenville, Rock Hill, or smaller towns in the Upstate region.North Carolina: The Research Triangle area (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) offers opportunities, as do smaller cities like Asheville or Wilmington.Remember to thoroughly research local building codes, zoning laws, and business regulations in any area you're considering.