My property manager says that we are already getting the best rates for our area.

She could have bought a second home as a rental, but with interest rates at 5%-she'd make more money keeping her money in the bank and not have to deal with tenants, so that is what she did.

Sorry for the bad news.At any rate, how to care for yourself.

Specifically, the areas near Wake Forest Medical School and Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center have attracted investors, as students are seeking rentals during residency.Favorable Tax Laws:  North Carolina boasts relatively low tax rates compared to many other states, with property taxes averaging at 0.70%, which is below the national average.

LOL.There’s a WORSE WAY and a BEST WAY to try to obtain items 1-4 aboveBEST WAY: College or Professional Association courses in real estate (real estate license course as a base) and work experience for a REIT or other professional real estate organization and capital saved or equity raised from private parties with a MODERATE amount of debt leverage and or utilizing creative financing with low interest rate debt (may be highly leverage)WORSE WAY; Any guru courses or mentorship’s combine with high interest debt. 

One of the inherent risks of new builds is locking in an interest rate.

Personally the wisest thing is to pause till the fall or winter to see where occupancy, nightly rates and interest rates are. 

Current mortgage rates aren't helping. still hopping to find a way!!!

@Kyle Allen Your savings and savings rate are commendable and a great start to long term wealth. 

Leave a gap at the bottom, a little less than you base board (typically 3.25”), then just partly fill every 12 to 16” with your drop /scraps.