Appreciation here is likely driven by demand for established areas and school districts, which likely isn't the <$250k stuff.If finding cheaper stuff was my priority I'd probably look out of state.

Those condo hoa's can do all kinds of crazy stuff to ding you - even after you buy the property. 

She eventually got a new boyfriend supposedly but I never saw him there and as far as I know he didn't stay overnight and I never saw his stuff there to worry about adding that person to the lease.

Frequently I see builder's reps try to pass stuff off on buyers that is 100% not acceptable, but most buyers don't know the difference. 

Good stuff, thank you for sharing :)

Being young, you may be able to find a nice area that will allow you to BRRR your way to a sizable portfolio as LTRs and create a ton of equity and long term wealth and then use that to do even more fun stuff in your second phase of investing.But in terms of returns, I still think STRs are the way to go - even in areas that are not big vacation spots. 

The only negative is that you have to check your bank account to see if the money has arrived.

I'm looking for savvy friends and I'm sure I can also give you tips about stuff in my domain of expertise.

Yes, the cost matters, but it's more important for an investor to understand how the cost is arrived at!

5 star reviews are the best, changing up photos etc all can boost your visibility.Update the amenities with new stuff.