While long-term rentals are still an option, I’m noticing that many investors are shifting towards STRs to boost their net profit.Here’s where I stand:VA Loan for leverage: I’ve found some great properties that could allow me to house-hack or set up a traditional rental.

Traditionally if you want to hedge against inflation, RE is a great choice.

Private lenders typically offer more flexibility than traditional financing, which is great when you're just starting out.

If you find yourself saying "I am new to real estate", then you do need some time to educate yourself (BiggerPockets is great for that) and plan your first investment carefully before jumping in.Remember, buying a traditional rental is one of many different ways you can enter REI world.

This enabled them to pay their agent.This approach is particularly crucial when the listing agent is unable or unwilling to negotiate the traditional 4-6% commission with the seller, leaving no commission to share.

I'm new to BP and trying to build a team as I dive into more frequent and long-term profitable REI.I've been doing SFH rentals over the last 15-18 years, but it's all been very traditionally financed (ho hum, 30 yr fixed) and as such has limited my ability to invest more frequently, and grow a portfolio.I'm here to learn how to use more creative financing strategies (private money lending, Sub-to, seller financing) to acquire 2-3 units (duplexes, tri) and 5+ multifamily properties. 

For example in wildfire areas here, buyers aren't able to get traditional homeowner's (or rental dwelling insurance if an investor) insurance and conventional Fannie Mae and Freddie Mae loans.

CoC return on these condos are from 12-15% with a cash flow of anywhere from $3-400 / month if going the traditional financing route.

SInce then it was all traditional purchases (SFH), and rentals.But for the last decade (!)

Seller financing can be a great way to sell a property while offering flexible terms and potentially earning a higher return than traditional investments.