While @Phillip Austin mentioned Raleigh is a higher returns its just very much a appreciation market, you will not find rentals that cashflow, so depending on your goals its a good or bad market.

The mailers I receive for my properties are not of a high enough quality, to make me believe the sender understands what gets a recipient to even open or read the mailer, let alone respond. 

Personally, I find BTRs to be more predictable with fewer ongoing maintenance issues, and they tend to attract high-quality tenants.

Some theming is basic and some is overdone, try to be unique or at least high quality, not a place you want to skimp.

@Rory DarcyRecommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

Many education programs that could be scams promote junk services and the quality of all they sell or promote is definitely junk. 

If you scour Craigslist, FB Marketplace or OfferUP, you will find some amazing deals on quality USA made furniture for pennies on the dollar.

But It’s bad business to try to raise them 40% at one go on a captive tenant, I’m glad you pushed back and got a more modest increase instead.

Focusing solely on numbers often leads to the purchase of low-quality properties.

Whether it’s for startup costs, equipment, or marketing, leveraging your home’s value can help bring your entrepreneurial goals to life.Bottom LineWhether you’re thinking about selling, upgrading, or simply want to understand your options, your home equity is a powerful resource.