Cash is king - if you can refi or take out a line of credit this prepares you for tenants who can't (or don't) pay rent and prepares you for opportunities should they arise. 

@Brittany Baker BRRRR method + using a portfolio commercial lender has helped me a ton.However, I think that it’s important to note a ton of my scaling success (and on these forums) is due to a rising market.

Secondly, your success largely depends on the team that you recruit and how well you manage them.I have a very thorough recruitment process which includes a video interview, running a paid background check on the individual, having them do a drug test before they’re hired and having them complete a DISC assessment.The employment contracts they sign are extremely thorough and address every possible problem which may arise.

A RISING TIDE LIFTS ALL BOATS

As far as a rising rate environment...who cares?

We are at historic lows and we're in a rising rate environment. 

Do you have the tools to analyze potential opportunities when they arise?

But who knows depending on how the govmit and lenders handle the Covid default situations could see it arise again.And of course there are tons of newer agents always breaking into the market..  

A rising tide lifts all boats!

I made a lot of mistakes early in my career, but a rising market and some rent increases were very forgiving of some mistakes.