If you have access to some money you can increase your equity in one jump.

My duplex - built 1989, 2,060 sf, 2 bed/bath, 1 year old roof, value if I subdivide (county already approved) and sell each separately $150k each ($300k total)Investor duplex - built 1995, 2,300 sf, 2 bed/bath, 5 year old roof, value around $310kThe investors initial request was for an equal trade and they would pay realtor fees, which I replied wouldn't be equal due to buying/selling costs (recording fees, title insurance, closing fee, survey, inspections, loan fees, 1031 fees, accountant fees, repairs), taxes would increase due to new sale price, I'd trade a 3.75% mortgage for a higher one, and I'm on the 10th year of a 30 year loan so resetting that to a new loan would restart amortization and pay more towards interest.

Just wanted to introduce myself.My name is Ariel, I am 32 years old (this Thursday), and I am making my first steps as a real estate investor.As I live abroad, most if not all of my work would be remote, and right now I am focusing on Jacksonville, FL.My main goal for this year is to fix and flip  at least 2 SF's properties, and for the next few years to increase this number, maybe do some MF, and possibly to also BRRR when I raise enough of my own capital.At the moment, my biggest challenge is the fact that I am remote, so I could use some help from a local realtor or management company.It's so amazing to know this community  exists, and I am thrilled to actually take part in it

Slight Update: After speaking with more BP members, I’m increasingly leaning toward making my first purchase in New York—a 4-unit rental property where I’d be my own landlord.

@Bryan HartlenManaging low-end properties can be demanding due to higher tenant turnover, increased maintenance needs, and frequent rent collection issues.

When landlords struggle to protect private property rights, they may either leave the market entirely or pass the increased costs on to tenants.

If you generate enough money annually to dismiss a W2, then consider covering the ever increasing costs of retirement & health care and those do not go at inflation metrics but usually way higher. 

This decision increased our budget from $15K to $45K, but it turned out to be a wise investment.

I just can't accept such a constant ever increasing loss, even if I can afford it. 

We decided to do a full rehab to get nearly double the rent ($2900)and increase the ARV to $260k.