As for growth in the real estate market we just closed on 4 properties in the USVI both commercial and residential so we are expanding and opportunities are definitely presenting themselves during this time if you are cash heavy and able to invest.  

A conventional bank such as wells fargo may do 80 ltv at that time, I have a good local bank that does 75% ltv, title in my llc, and very competitive rates.

When you are in a competitive market, you should consider mailing and calling people who aren’t on every other investor’s radar.

No doubt USA is Best economy, competition is a bunch of Donkeys."

I have used cozy.co successfully for four years father a negative experience with Erentpayment.com.check out www.cozy.co - competitive fees, many added features, including listings, applications, credit monitoring, transmittal of leases, maintenance requests, etc. 

My original plan was to BRRRR/house hack and while I’m not getting away from the idea, I have started to think about getting involved in markets further from where I work/Boston due to the competition, prices, etc.I’m interested to learn more from those involved in the Worcester, NH/VT/ME markets where these types of properties appear to be much cheaper.

I don't know if I'd invest there because I believe in heavy diversification.

Next is to put together a detailed scope of work so you can get competitive bids.

I tend to take a data heavy approach to understanding the market, so I can help you out on that end. 

For instance, we suddenly faced competition from a shadow market of cheap rent condos and rental homes which had previously been for sale but suddenly became rental properties.