That’s something I’m actively exploring—whether it’s through direct-to-seller marketing, networking with local wholesalers, or even tapping into connections through my brother-in-law, who works with builders and contractors in the area.I’m not expecting slam-dunk deals or easy wins, but the numbers on a few potential projects I’ve run so far seem to work under the assumption that I’ll leave some cash in the deals.

Maybe the biggest "risk" might be the fact that you cannot occupy the property at all so technically if you run into hard times and need to move into the property thats not intended - but no real more risk. 

Run the numbers on a basket of deals you're looking at.

When things are running smoothly it’s hard to see the value of paying a PM 8 - 10%….

When I run the numbers based on these rents, the property operates at a negative cash flow.If I increase the studio's rent to $1,400 per month, the property becomes cash-flow positive.

It’s a cleaner, more reliable solution, and while the higher subscription cost can feel like a drawback, it’ll save you a lot of headaches and time in the long run.

Realistically if you have around $18,000-$22,000 liquid per house and its at least drawing even you eliminate the vast majority of issues people run into with over leveraging.

It can also be an opportunity to discuss house rules and expectations to ensure you're on the same page.While being cost-conscious is understandable, investing a little upfront for proper screening can save you a lot of trouble in the long run.

But I will say from the feedback we've been getting from hosts in the Smokies, make sure you run your numbers good and know how to stand out in a heavily saturated market.

It was a high value house so it was OK but I sure don't want to run into that again!