I do not care what the source of the return is  Historically the highest return is via a value add and appreciation and is more so recently due to the recent rate increase versus earlier this century (before 2022).However, most new RE investors cannot handle extended periods of large negative cash flow.  

If you think about it in any industry less transparency and more friction in the transaction will increase fees/commission vs reducing them.I like the idea as an investor of having different agents, a team of agents maybe 3-4 bringing me deals, but I think less of that will happen now as all will have to have you sign some kind of agreement up front. 

It will actually be more difficult for your agent to procure a buyer off market - so the work actually increases. 

(example - STR on the back end to increase cash flow)To me, forced apperception (BRRRR or buying at a discount) is a hedge against market corrections.

I also look at future development plans in the area, as new projects can increase property values and attract more renters.

They had caught some trespassers.We have continued to upgrade our security systems as capabilities have increased and costs have decreased.  

Whether we agree with these items or not, the following are inflationary government policies: stimulus, student debt relief, tariffs, increased child tax credits, limited immigration, and big government deficit spending.

I'll focus on maintaining the property and optimizing rent increases to ensure consistent returns over the years.

And during inflationary times rental rates increase.

Your returns could be increased if you are willing to rent it by the room to individual students.