There's usually a good reason why the entry points are lower.

If the loan amount you are looking for is small relative to the value of the first and the second property combined, they are very well secured on a LTV%; ask for a 1% point lower rate.If you don't want to Cross Collateralize, do you have any CD's or MM you can transfer to this bank as collateral. 

However, if single-family homes prove financially viable, I’m happy to continue building in that niche.Since these homes and projects are significantly cheaper than my market, the risk is relatively lower for me and can do at least two at a time.The ChallengeOne of the biggest hurdles is finding reliable contractors and subcontractors in the area.

Guaranteed others are fine with a lower elevation, but I do not have water run over my foundation inside.

All else being equal, lower mortgage rates reduce the cost of ownership and, thereby, allow more people to afford to buy.

It's a more affordable market and lower property taxes, so you may actually have a chance to cash flow.

Quote from @Melanie Baldridge: Why I like investing in real estate more than 401(k)s.Both offer tax deferrals, but here's the difference:If you're making pre-tax contributions to your 401(k), then withdrawals = ordinary income tax.With real estate gains, you're paying capital gains tax (which is typically lower).Plus, RE investors get:1.

There are some zip codes where you can indeed get above market rent with S8 (even after deducting utility allowance), but some where they are lower.

In a market like this where properties are sitting a bit longer, buyer demand is kind of stagnant, many appraisals have been coming in lower than anticipated.

Mean while i would be building equity, and if rates do lower, or when the term ends, could refi for better rates and then maybe cash flow.My questions are:Is this too naively optimistic?