@Christopher Smith there are many...but in my opinion really only three companies out there that offer the ability to 721 into a large and diversified REIT that i'd feel comfortable with. 

I'll check around with some lenders to see what they share about their comfort with the timeline - whether HELOC or not.  

This allows you to participate from the comfort of your own home while still networking and learning.

But if you're comfortable with rougher areas, then you can definitely find properties at lower prices.

This is something I try to live by and teach my kids if I can - "A human being should be able to change a diaper, plan an invasion, butcher a hog, conn a ship, design a building, write a sonnet, balance accounts, build a wall, set a bone, comfort the dying, take orders, give orders, cooperate, act alone, solve equations, analyze a new problem, pitch manure, program a computer, cook a tasty meal, fight efficiently, die gallantly.

The combination of families looking for more space, good schools, and a quieter lifestyle has been a big driver of demand.For my investments, I’ve noticed:High tenant quality: Families or professionals relocating to suburbs like Naperville and Wheaton tend to stay longer, which helps with stability.Increased competition: It’s definitely tougher to find good deals, especially in top-tier school districts.

., Purchase Price: $475,000 ($197.9/sq. ft.).Estimated Market Value: $402,000 ($168/sq. ft.).Financing Terms: 2% interest rate, with a 9-year balloon.Unit B Income: $2,049/month (Section 8 tenant through November 2025).Unit A Income Potential: Similar rent or higher; Section 8 cap for the area is $3,234/month.Monthly Loan Payment (P+I): $1,386.Cash Flow Breakdown (if both units are rented at $2,049/month):Gross Rent: $4,098/month.Vacancy (10%): $410/month.Operating Expenses (37.3%): $1,376/month.Net Cash Flow: $943/month.Key QuestionsWould you be comfortable paying an 18% premium for financing at 2%, especially in a market where current mortgage rates are closer to 7%?

A reliable tenant stays for many years, pays the rent on schedule, and takes good care of the property.Reliable tenants are the exception, not the norm.

The lessons you learned the hard way in 2008 will be invaluable now, and it’s great that you’re aiming to stay small-scale and within your comfort zone of Sacramento, which gives you an advantage of knowledge in that market.Given your experience, I'd say start by focusing on three key areas to build confidence and minimize risks:Budget Control: Over-renovating was one of the big mistakes you mentioned.

Would you think changing my minimum stay on Airbnb would be worth it?