Planning to relocate to the Southeast (SC, NC or Georgia) in 2026 and want to start out by investing in single-family rentals, condos and joining real estate investment groups to invest in multi-unit or commercial properties.My investing goals consist of cash flow for consistent monthly payments and equity for bigger purchases down the road.Looking forward to building a network of real estate professionals and investors to help find new opportunities, stay on top of market trends and provide value to other investors and tenants.Any tips for new investors would be appreciated.Best,Brett HarmonTwitter

If you're property is in decent shape and there isn't much concern of the renter paying, then I would decline it.

The place was in very bad shape with only a handful of the 24 units actually rented.

I'd think if you had a cleaner come in to handle that aspect and then used an app to manage the leases and things you'd be in pretty good shape.  

Heights is a great option and very nice and looked after area where this strategy will work, but it will be hard to find something in good shape bellow 350k.

This links to the system design.Here is my guess regarding the system size trending (I might be wrong) - Most of the developers I have got in touch with (at lease in CA) are still interested in 1-5 MW projects as more and more transmission project suitable lots were taken/investigated/too expensive to construct.

Ensure your pricing is competitive and that your minimum nightly stay aligns with market trends.

What are the best websites that monitor trends in populations and real estate for USA?

Quote from @Jackson Ebersole: Hi Piper,It's always smart to flip properties in-state, and I'd like to share some updated insights on why this approach is beneficial, especially in the New Jersey area.Lenders typically feel more comfortable with in-state flips because:You can manage the rehab more easilyYou have better knowledge of local real estate trends and valuesYou can respond quickly to issues or make decisions fasterThere's a lower risk of fraud or being taken advantage of by distant partnersI can help you with recommendations for the New Jersey market:North Bergen: Continues to show strong potential, with average profits now around $150,000 per flip and a gross ROI of 85%.Willingboro: While specific flip numbers aren't available, the market remains active with a gross ROI now averaging around 130%.Gloucester City: Still a top performer, with gross ROI hovering around 180-190%, though still on smaller profit margins.Irvington: Home values have continued to rise, with a 20% increase over the past two years.East Orange: Has seen steady growth, with home values up by about 16% since 2022.Paterson: Experienced a 14% increase in home values over the last two years.Additionally, Jersey City and Newark have emerged as promising markets for flips, with strong appreciation rates and growing demand.

Here's some guidance on buying your first investment property in Southern California or Columbus, Ohio:Down payment:For investment properties, lenders typically require 15-30% down payment on your first investment15% down is possible with excellent credit (700+ score)20-25% down is more common, especially for multi-unit propertiesSection 8 considerations:Pros:Guaranteed portion of rent from governmentPotential for longer-term tenantsMay be easier to fill vacancies in some areasCons:More paperwork and inspections requiredRent amounts set by local housing authorityPotential property damage concernsOther tips:Research local markets carefully - price trends, rental rates, etc.Factor in all costs - taxes, insurance, maintenance, vacanciesConsider starting with a single-family home or small multi-unitBuild a team - real estate agent, property manager, contractorsHave cash reserves beyond just the down paymentUnderstand landlord-tenant laws in your chosen locationI'd recommend talking to local real estate agents in both areas to get more specific market insights.