Diversifying geographically can also reduce risk and increase long-term returns.For example, there are several markets across the U.S. that are ideal for new investors because they offer affordable entry points, reliable cash flow, and strong economic fundamentals.

We like the short-term rental idea because we could stay at the property ourselves when we want - summer break, spring/winter breaks, etc.Our budget will be right around $1M or less ideally, and we would like a short distance to the ocean.How likely is it that we could find a property as described above and have it cover or come close to covering the mortgage? 

I focus on finding deals that meet specific criteria, and I always keep my underwriting conservative to make sure the numbers work even on a worst case scenario.Right now, my big goal is to land my first property, ideally 20+ units in Florida, and build a strong portfolio from there.

For our second STR, we are currently researching Sherman, potentially / ideally, a less expensive duplex that we could rennovate and self manage from Dallas with workers coming to the area in mind. 

Ideally was thinking a duplex, triplex, or quadplex to get started and use an FHA loan but I also have a private lender that can possibly help with up to $200k worth of a down payment.

If staying in the deal isn’t ideal for you, an equity buyout by your partner or another investor could be the simplest path.

It’s the most dangerous thing we do everyday, we carry liability insurance through our personal auto policy.

The real property investment can be repositioned if it proves disappointing in its original form; it can be refinanced or recapitalized if it has too much or too e pensive debt; inflation over time bales out many bad purchases, and finally the investors knowledge, experience and abilities can be leveraged to turn around a cash flow negative property.I’ll provide an exampleThree years ago we purchased a note from a bank secured by two auto repair facilities with a large amount of excess land.  

Otherwise, the deal (and all my earnest money/inspection costs) falls through.Money Spent So FarEarnest Money Deposit: $1,500Appraisal: $750Inspections: $1,050Survey: $580I’ve invested a fair amount already, and I really don’t want to lose this opportunity.Financial SnapshotMonthly Income: $4,500 (increasing to $6,000 by March).Monthly Expenses: About $2,000 total, including $1,000 rent (which I won’t have once I move in).Future Income: By June, I expect even more significant income from my business ventures.Debt-to-Income: Not too high right now, but my credit score is poor, so that limits quick loans or credit card solutions.Condition of the PropertyFull Rehab Needed: The house currently isn’t livable without major repairs.Seller Won’t Negotiate: I’ve already asked for an extension and concessions, but the seller is unwilling to help or budge on anything.Attempts So FarFriends & Family: No one can cover $25K.Down Payment Assistance Programs: I’ve tried multiple; none seem to fit.Co-Signer: Already have a co-signer on the mortgage.Personal Loans / Credit Cards: With my credit score, interest rates are brutal, and I’m worried about jeopardizing my FHA approval.Extensions: We’ve already pushed the closing date back by a month.What I’m Looking ForCreative Financing: Any reputable local lenders, credit unions, or community programs in Detroit that specialize in these types of last-minute shortfalls for buyers with less-than-ideal credit?

I think having a balanced budget would be ideal where you allocate money into buying another property and money set aside for renovations.