My answer for you is not based upon your Sub2 question primarily.

For any value add project, the primary evaluation is based on the numbers.Provided you have trustworthy teammates for the renovation side and a competent agent on the valuation side, you'll perform no matter the location.It seems your weighing factors that relate more towards long-term investing and where your asset will appreciate the most.In respect to emerging markets, you'll want to use characteristics like population growth, employment growth, safety trends and path of progress.

Hey @Benjamin Jones -  Fellow Japan-based investor here.  

I'm looking to purchase my first rental property and have been searching for a deal that would generate positive cash flow based on my projections.

Based on our preliminary plans we should be able to relatively easily convert the basement into a 3rd unit or just rent the 1st floor as a duplex down 4bd.

Based on the numbers seems like it was a straight forward conventional loan...any challenges?

These forums are a great place to learn and connect with fellow investors.I’m an investor based out of Columbus, OH.

By reducing the principal balance, your lender recalculates your monthly payment based on the new, lower balance.How Does Mortgage Recasting Work?

I'm a licensed Realtor in Northeast Georgia and can shed some light based on my experience.Sponsoring Broker for Part-Time Realtors:Yes, in Georgia, you need to affiliate with a broker to activate your license after passing the licensing exam.

I would need to consult tax consultant for this however I expect to reduce my effective costs by ~$1,495/month (based on a 32% tax bracket).2.