You can start to educate yourself on the individual components; how much does it cost to paint on a per sqft basis or what is an average kitchen remodel.  

i found in my build projects that started just before and continued through the pandemic prices rose. everything but lumber became sticky IE they rose but did not fall..

Were you able to get started with your multifamily investing?

. - We start with the property vs. the numbers. 

The property was occupied (still is) with 1 tenant that I am now having the exhausting pleasure of evicting. 2yrs later, said tenant continues to try every angle to delay the court granted Marshall’s execution.The “2nd” floor was poorly renovated (bad contractors), new tenant moved in and a year later, another eviction process has started as they lost their job and refuse to move or pay.Stuck with a very large mortgage bill (that I am paying), utilities and making small repairs to keep the property up also noting the casual 311 complaints from both tenants. 

I started listening to the BiggerPockets podcast in late 2023 and have since heard every episode. 

Is it a bad idea to start investing if I don't live in the country.

I think the first place to start is evaluating quality deals.

I sold that in 92. next iteration was 2002 when I started a new lending company in Portland OR to specifically fund Turnkey buyers in the mid west doing BRRRR loans we killed that.

More of a general trend, when we started we asked the same question. how low can I get it?