You need income to qualify for loans, you can learn how to manage rentals well (something most landlords never do), you will figure out which communities/properties make the best investments, can earn an above-average paycheck, and may even find some investment properties before they hit the market.

Hopefully we will be managing a handful of other STRs in the same market in the future.

I tried attending one in my local market a couple of times but felt like I was in some hotel ballroom being pitched on how the 12 year-old kid up in front would teach us all how to run to the back of the room to swipe $10K on our AMEX for the secrets of real estate investing.

Or find a deal first then market it to buyers, then offer on the house and create an agreement with the seller & buyer?

Here are some trends that could play out, or further develop in 2025.Leasing & Tenant Experience AI-Powered Leasing: Chatbots and AI tools will streamline leasing processes, from answering tenant inquiries to scheduling tours.Virtual Tours & Digital Leasing: These will become even more standard, making it easier for tenants to rent remotely.TechnologySmart Property Management: IoT devices (smart locks, thermostats, etc.) will become more common, improving efficiency and tenant satisfaction.Property Management Software: Platforms will integrate more AI for predictive maintenance, rent collection, and financial reporting.SustainabilityGreen building practices and energy-efficient upgrades will be a major focus, driven by tenant demand and potential incentives.AI & AutomationAI will play a bigger role in tenant screening, rent pricing optimization, and even predicting market trends.Automation will handle repetitive tasks like maintenance requests and lease renewals, freeing up PMs for higher-level activities.I'm sure there are plenty more shifting trends that I haven't mentioned and that are sure to evolve over the next year. 

Rented at $3,215 to a Section 8 Long-Term Tenant instead of a Long-Term Market Tenants for $2,400.

I’ve looked into blanket loans before, but I’m curious about how they’re shaping up in today’s market.

In a highly competitive tourist market like New Orleans, I update my photos weekly. 

After living through the GFC and the shrinking market for local banks, they saw an opening in the market for what they call "consultative banking" like they had years before and decided to start a bank.

See if you’re in a tight market.