Connect with other investors, agents, and property managers to get a feel for the area and learn from their experiences.Are you thinking about house hacking or just straight-up rentals for now?

Long distance investing/managing is an obvious for me since I move every couple years, but I retire from the Navy in 5-7 years, and I'll finally settle in one place. 

I would run this by your realtor/property manager to get clarification.

A scenario like that would likely result in getting your entire investment back upon refi and also a nice cash-flowing rental to manage.   

We both knew we were aligned in our goals and had a clear understanding of our respective roles in the deal from the outset.If seller financing is part of the equation, look for someone who’s not only experienced with creative financing but also understands how to manage the potential risks involved.

If this is your only rental, it's more about if you want to keep the property from a management perspective.

You’ll want to invest in areas that have tenant interest but also aren't on the extreme end of neighborhood quality—this means avoiding the very toughest spots, where turnover can be high and managing tenants can be difficult.

Hi Shaheen, rental properties often get hit with higher tax rates because local governments see them as commercial investments.

Also, I put stock in the fact that I can manage things well and that I try to operate above reproach.

From experience, finding a knowledgeable accountant is key for handling taxes effectively, especially when splitting expenses, claiming deductions, and managing depreciation.