Some custodians are more responsive and customer focused than others, with the large majority being better options than one or two of the larger firms with big marketing reach that have been around for a long time and forgotten that their customers are the reason they are in business.A checkbook IRA LLC is an enhancement on the above structure that is generally more time and cost efficient for investors with a more diverse portfolio.

I suggest you go where you can house hack/BRRR for cashflow, build up a small portfolio over a few years, and then make the move to a major metro area like NYC as a *lifestyle* decision instead of an *investment* decision.  

Collaborating with local travel or lifestyle influencers can be a cost-effective way to promote your short-term rental on social media.

This is by far the most significant benefit and can meaningfully enhance the total return to investors in these projects who are patient enough to hold for this length of time.

Areas like the Short North Arts District are experiencing significant development and gentrification.Infrastructure Investments: Ongoing infrastructure projects, such as the Smart Columbus initiative, are enhancing the city's accessibility and quality of life, further boosting its appeal to residents and investors alike.Remember, while the market shows promise, due diligence is essential.

Be prepared to make some lifestyle changes to get as debt free as quickly as possible.

Either way, these types of purchases should be for a lifestyle investment (somewhere to escape to a few times a year, and pays its own bills when you aren't there), or a cash flow investment (in which case, you need to consider self management, in my opinion)..

Room rentals are big money makers in some areas so retrofitting the home to cater to multiple lifestyle tenants might also be worth looking into. 

If you're married, talk to you spouse about your shared goals and vision including how much passive income you want, what your expenses will be, what your lifestyle is like, etc. 

There are many beginning options however none will work if you do not modify your life style to optimise your savings.