They'd be the first to tell you that they don't want you getting into a deal that you don't understand or aren't comfortable with.

For Investors: The high percentage of cash transactions indicates a stable market with solid returns.

They may have been very solid buyers that changed their mind for some reason.

I'd really appreciate any advice, connections, or recommendations for a local agent.Huntsville can be a solid market for single-family rentals, especially given its economic growth (tech and aerospace sectors specifically).

It can take a little digging but they are not that hard to find especially when you have a solid network of other investors, wholesalers and good investor friendly agents.Location is going to play into all the things you have to worry about in terms of rents, sale prices, crime, STR/LTR.Do you have a specific zipcode or area you are thinking?

From what I understand, I hear that this particular office is understaffed.  

Nothing wrong with it if you understand the risks, and are comfortable with it.

So the pros and cons of each option as I understand it:1031 DST: Pro: start the investment with a bigger chunk of money because I didn't have to pay taxes on it. 

In a solid market, with a high quality SFR, you can either flip as-is to another investor, or at the other end, upgrade to flip status and retail to an end buyer.At the end of the day, all investors have a short term and long term approach to their model.  

My places are cabins, so when I am outfitting a new cabin, I am typically in the market for log beds, solid hickory dining sets, and durable, sturdy antiques.