Our lovely East Coast boasts some ideal areas that have shown consistent property price value increases over time, making them attractive for long-term holds, particularly in the rental property market.Consider these cities and zip codes in Southeast Florida:Miami-Dade County:Miami Beach (33139, 33140)Coral Gables (33134, 33146)Brickell (33131)Broward County:Fort Lauderdale (33301, 33304)Pompano Beach (33062, 33064)Hollywood (33019, 33020)These locations have witnessed remarkable growth, but it's always wise to conduct your own research and evaluate factors that align with your investment goals and risk tolerance.If you'd like to hear personal experiences or discuss further, I'm more than happy to chat with you.

Not sure your strategy here but just throwing some ideas your way.Check building permits to see what's happening in town.

(based on various factors like if its a referral, a listing, completed transaction etc)

I dealt with this for months until my inability to find a large construction company to build a double sided fire escape on this property forced me to sell it.

Analyze potential investment properties based on factors such as purchase price, renovation costs, potential lease revenues, vacancy rates, property taxes, insurance costs, and ROI .

Have the agent or the lender call the service to see about turn times (this is a factor in contingencies periods on the offer for loan).

However, I would like to build connections and eventually start here in California.

You can offer to lend the seller money to stop the foreclosures. 7 or do a lease with an option to buy - making up the back payments that would be considered you advance lease payment.Always look at the property if you have intentions of bidding at the auction (this can be tricky because you need to do that with the owner's permission - do try to build a rapport with seller  - also look at the foreclosure suit to find out what the bank is looking for and if there is a second mortgage or other liens.At the court house steps when the auction take place you need to be well prepared with your certified funds but more importantly you need to know the fast sale value of the property - you don't want to pay retail.Get to know your competition - there will be professionals at the foreclosure auction looking to capture some serious equity.

My question is whether it’s a bad idea to put 20% down and continue renting my own place because of the convenience factors including being able to walk to work (and I work long/late hours).

I think this gets down played, but getting to live in your desired location is a HUGE factor.