Having a list of the problems made by an expert might make it a little bit easier to make the decision do you want to tear it down or do you want to make it a labor of love and restore it like Grandma had it - maybe with an air conditioning system in it and Hardiboard on the outside, and new windows et cetera...

I know these are not mythical creatures because they are all over the va.gov website, but it sure feels like it.I'd find the VA-registered builder first and ask who they work with on the mortgage side of things.

Your experiences and insights can be invaluable in helping me make an informed decision.Please feel free to share your thoughts, experiences, or any relevant information.

Understand the financing options available for first-time investors and explore FHA loans or other programs tailored for owner-occupied properties.Networking and Mentorship: While you're already connected to Bigger Pockets, actively seek out mentors or local real estate investor groups in Missouri.

Its your money but I would drive the areas to get a feel for whats around what you are buying . 

Let your agent express their feelings and concerns. 

If anyone has any tips or tricks to a first-timer, feel free to leave a reply (especially curious about standard practices for identifying deals).

After 4 years we have made ZERO percent ROI, this has been a half-time extremely stressful job for us, even with a property manager, with constant repairs and bad tenants.

I made the mistake of renting my single-family house in Alpharetta to a tenant with a credit score in the 500s in December 2023.

Feels like extending my umbrella policy to cover the S/MTR would be a good idea.