Don't make your life more complicated than it has to be.

Inspections may cost more upfront, but they can save you from significant headaches and unexpected expenses down the road.Negotiate Hard: Use inspection findings as leverage.If the HVAC is near the end of its life, negotiate a credit for its replacement.If the cast iron plumbing is deteriorating and needs replacement, ask for a credit as well.Sellers often prefer negotiating credits over doing the work themselves.To give you an example: I was once under contract for an old house priced at $170,000.

However, I'm now reading Dave Meyer's book Start With Strategy to learn more about whether long-term residential rentals is even the best approach or if I should be looking into other strategies, in light of my overall goal.After Start With Strategy I plan to read Set For Life by Scott Trench, but what other recommendations do you guys have at the strategic level?

I’ve spent most of my life in California (SF/LA) and have been in Pittsburgh for only two years, so I’m still getting familiar with the area.Does anyone know of RE agents in Pittsburgh who specialize in STR investments?

Add a very diversified economy here with banking, insurance, oil and gas, education, three medical schools, 3 law schools, life sciences, DFW airport, and so much more, it looks like the growth just goes on and on.As far as appreciation goes, that's always tough to predict. 

I am new to RE investing and I am learning right now before I make my first moves.  Many of the BP podcasts are from a pretty young perspective, both in terms of flexibility and maybe even priorities.  I would love to...

I am all for taking risks in life, but we also have a 1 year old son now and I don't want to jeopardize the life we've built so far.

Balance what you are learning through KW on how to be an agent and in the real estate class (much better basis for investors in real life than agents) with going to real estate investor meetups in your area.

I've lived here my whole life and know the area and market very well.

He is not financially independent, but I bet he's living the life you dream of.Figure out what you really want, then start building a plan to get there.