For example, I think a good way for me to start in real estate is to learn everything I can about underwriting, then find 1-3 properties on which I think the numbers make sense and post them here for feedback from more experienced members.

Give your property a makeover, a fresh coat of paint.

I saw an example recently in Bloomberg about how local regulations can really shape a landlord’s experience, from what I’ve heard.

Grocers must eat the loss of their fresh vegetable or frozen foods during a power outage.

Target ReturnsWhile target returns are crucial, these should be discussed only with investors—not brokers or others helping you find deals.Sample Investment CriteriaHere’s an example of well-defined CCC:Location: Primary and secondary cities in the Southeast with population growth.Type & Class: Class C garden-style or walk-up workforce housing with repositioning opportunities.Age: 1980s construction or newer (case-by-case for older).Price: $5M–$12M, requiring $1.5M–$3M in funds.Size: 100+ units.Cap Rates: Market rates.Roof Type: Pitched roofs preferred.Value-Add: Opportunities for improvements or better management.Why This MattersBy creating crystal clear criteria, you:Avoid wasting time on deals that don’t align with your goals.Build trust with brokers and partners by demonstrating a focused investment strategy.Increase your chances of finding deals that meet your financial and operational objectives.I'll be posting each chapter as I go through them so you can follow along from my notes and we can discuss different strategies.

Examples might include areas in the Midwest, Southeast, or Sunbelt regions.Multifamily Properties: Consider duplexes, triplexes, or small apartment buildings to increase unit count and spread risk across multiple tenants.Short-Term Rentals: If you’re comfortable with the management requirements, STRs in vacation or business travel markets can offer significantly higher cash flow potential than traditional rentals.Value-Add Properties: Look for opportunities to buy undervalued properties where you can force appreciation through renovations or better management.Decision FrameworkRun the Numbers: Compare the projected cash flow, equity growth, and tax implications of selling versus holding with a refinance or HELOC.

That isn't written somewhere specifically that way, but your lender will ask why you would move your primary from (for example) a 2,000 SF SFR to a 750 SF unit in a four plex? 

i'd pick a market close by, or that you have a personal connection to, or that you visit often.chasing cash flow by itself can lead to negative outcomes - for example, these investors bought in supposed "cash flow" markets:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/12/topics/1215726-break...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/963/topics/1195280-expe...https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/48/topics/1137397-balti...hope this helps.

For example, minor towel or linens replacement is something I have a budget for (built into pricing).

Florida’s a great market, so if you need tips or guidance, let me know—I’m happy to send you an example of the report I created and the article I wrote about this.