The phrase "don't put all your eggs in one basket" comes to mind.

While I’ll keep Sioux Falls in mind, I’ll move it to the “maybe” list for now.  

Do you have a region in mind to buy in or are you just exploring the idea?

Lake Berkley or Terra Verde come to mind, they are peaceful yet still fairly close to the parks.

Keep in mind that while there is an exemption to the Fair Housing Act.....most states that have a state level Fair housing law do not typically provide the same exemptions as the national law.

Keep in mind the more you write off the less money you will show as you net.If you have (2) full years and depending on how the accountant files your taxes you will have a schedule C more than likely or another schedule that shows profit and loss.

We lease a platform for online access and efficiency with both a lender and investor portal.

Keep in mind that DSCR loans are how most investors have scaled. whether its residential DSCR or commercial DSCR at 5+ units. personally, i like them better. few reasons why:1. seasoning period is only like 10-30 days vs 60days going conventional2. seller max contributions DSCR is 3-6% where conventional its only 2% max3.

It may make sense to save a bit more and invest from a position of power.Keep in mind most helocs are adjustable.

Not sure if its "too basic" but its where my mind goes.- I'd start with the end.