Recently, I had the opportunity to cash out a portion of my 401(k), leaving me with $20,000 burning a hole in my pocket.

I am now back, sitting on cash and looking to invest in Pittsburgh first, then surrounding areas.

Some other neighborhoods like Cudell, the West Eighties, and Bellaire Puritas are nicer in some spots, but might also be worth avoiding if you're only looking for C+ or higher.

The interest rate obviously won't be as good but maybe you can find a deal with minimal cash down.

The key is finding quality notes that are held by folks that are motivated to sell because they need cash.

For example lets say you are gonna make $50k on this and the delta on taxes might be $7500 which that price if it is November 2025 when you have the delta in taxes recouped may not be worth it if home values are decreasing. 

Is it worth buying down your mortgage rate?

By accelerating your depreciation schedules, you reduce your taxable income which in turn increases your operating cash flow.

@Alfath Ahmed I have heard good things about the current market in Columbus, however, cash-flow through buy and hold is what I am after currently.

So you're left with acquiring properties all-cash.