Does anyone know a local credit union or bank that will fund a HELOC on an owner occupied duplex?

There are lots of meet up groups around Orlando, you'll have to travel a bit for most of them, but if that is your goal...Also check out CFRI dot/net if you would like to network with other local investors and trades.

Get pricing from your local builders to make sure the build costs are current5.

It could also be that your rehab/finishes/curb appeal are not up to local standards to attract the buyers but price overcomes all objections.What can you do now and next time?

I don't plan on buying anytime really soon but I'd love to start connecting with more seasoned investors and local professionals within the area.

OOS investing is a lot harder than advertised.if you pick a local or local-ish market you can spend time in it, walk properties, go to REIA meetings, build a network.

I'm a local real estate agent specializing in STR around the Yosemite area.

It depends on your local laws, but any paperwork you can provide the tenant to indicate that they need to respond might help.

Let's break down the pros and cons of each approach:Forming an LLC in the State Where the Property is Located:Pros:Compliance with Local Laws: Establishing an LLC in the state where the property is situated ensures compliance with local regulations and laws specific to that jurisdiction.Legal Clarity: It provides clear legal jurisdiction and may simplify any legal proceedings related to the property in that state.Perception: Operating with a local LLC may give tenants and local authorities confidence in your commitment to the community.Cons:Additional Costs: Setting up and maintaining an LLC in another state means incurring additional registration fees, taxes, and possibly hiring local legal counsel.Administrative Burden: Managing multiple LLCs across different states adds complexity to your administrative workload, including extra paperwork and compliance requirements.Tax Implications: You may face tax obligations in both the state where the property is located and your home state, potentially leading to double taxation or complexities in tax filings.Managing Through Home State LLC:Pros:Simplified Management: Handling all properties under a single LLC streamlines administrative tasks, reducing paperwork and simplifying tax filings.Cost Savings: Avoiding the need to establish multiple LLCs in different states saves on registration fees, legal expenses, and ongoing maintenance costs.Consistency: Uniformity in management practices and legal structures may contribute to efficiency and ease of operation across your real estate portfolio.Cons:Legal Exposure: Operating out-of-state properties under a home state LLC may expose your personal assets to the laws and liabilities of the other state, potentially diminishing the liability protection the LLC offers.Compliance Challenges: You'll need to ensure your home state LLC meets the legal requirements for conducting business in other states, which could involve additional filings and fees.Perception and Credibility: Some tenants or local stakeholders may prefer dealing with a landlord who has a local presence, which could impact your reputation or relationships in the community.Ultimately, the decision depends on your specific circumstances, risk tolerance, and long-term goals.

It was purchased from a local wholesaler, then repaired/reno'd, from a single family to a single family with a legal suite.