What limits home-buying beyond inventory, rates, and prices are the lending practices now.

My purpose behind my decision to pursue REI is to gain financial freedom for wife and I, my future family as well as have the ability to make sure my parents are well taken care of once they reach the retirement age.If I had to label myself I’d want to be known as an open minded rental investor for all long term, mid term and short term investing, with the occasional flip for quicker capitol to put back into another rental.

I'd recommend the spread on the return and your ability to replace damaged items (local vs. not local, strength of your team) be the determining factors in that decision.

I applaud you and your wife for thinking about this so early and your apparently great ability to save money for this next step! 

However, between the work-from-home ability and the recent crime spike in D.C. post covid, many businesses have moved just outside the city to areas like Alexandria and Arlington, which in their own regard already had thriving business environments.This macro trend, along with the massive amount of economic and infrastructure development happening in Alexandria will lead to massive rent growth and home price appreciation over time. 

It is solid to look at deals that are off-market and know that the ability to buy it at a price and either hold it or sell it will be coming with less competition on the purchase and more upside.  

The sellers have not been responsive when asked to provide that information, which is why I was wondering if it's a typical practice prior to submitting an offer. 

One of my attorneys just sent me a bill reminder a couple of weeks ago for a fee I had already paid back in June/July, which never went through, and that I sent again in August. 

Anyone have practical experience with this that we can discuss further?

For real estate investors who are investing in debt financed real estate, or real estate syndication, the ability to invest with a 401(k) Roth, avoiding UBIT/UDFI and compounding tax-free growth, can be really powerful!