think bigger. we build a triplex that's very popular in columbus. for house hacking unless you want to live with your tenants or rent bedrooms out push the dwelling units up and run the numbers. as long as you can qualify for it 

You are correct that prices are high, it's also good to know that 2-4 unit properties are extremely popular at the moment.

It takes time to build up the reputation, even in a popular area like Sedona.Sedona does have a ton of STRs but it sees in the neighborhood of 5m visitors a year so I wouldn't worry too much.Getting on VRBO is a must IMHO.

Also extremely popular with today's renters are the 1960s and 1920s.

It is the most popular software in the industry and all CPAs know how to navigate it which is nice.

Also, ask them what the most popular colors and color schemes are, since they deal with painters and homeowner directly, they can be treasures of information of what accent colors are being used and where, etc.* Call local property mgr's and/or ask for referrals from your relator friends/associates, and ask them for referrals - sometimes they will be nice enough to offer helpful advice, especially, if you tell them you will consider using them when you turn the house into a rental in a yearAs a 27yr appraiser and Realtor/Broker, the paint job has minimal affect on the value, unless it is so bad that I have to mark it down in quality and/or condition.

However, there is such a thing as a self-directed solo 401k plan which is very popular for those who are self employed.Following are the similarities and differences between the solo 401k and the self-directed IRA.The Self-Directed IRA and Solo 401k Similarities Both were created by congress for individuals to save for retirement;Both may be invested in alternative investments such as real estate, precious metals tax liens, promissory notes, private company shares, and stocks and mutual funds, to name a few;Both allow for Roth contributions;Both are subject to prohibited transaction rules;Both are subject to federal taxes at time of distribution;Both allow for checkbook control for placing alternative investments;Both may be invested in annuities;Both are protected from creditors;Both allow for nondeductible contributions;Both are prohibited from investing in assets listed under I.R.C. 408(m); andNeither may be invested in your own business.  

It seems like this is one of the biggest challenges for people in real estate.This will not be a popular post, but taking a course on raising money will not magically raise money for someone.

The data we have seen shows obviously Malls, Hotels, Casinos, Strip Malls as being hit the hardest. 

@Paul B. you're right, the terms @John Stanley mentioned are good terms and contrary to popular belief there are groups  who offer deals without acquisition fees.