What market's do you invest in? 

Staying in the Wilmington area makes the most sense, as we really know that market, but I also have a soft spot for the western part of NC!  

@Rodrigo Barreiro PujolYour plan to house hack in Austin with a $25k initial investment is a solid start.

Conduct market research, get pre-approved for a mortgage, define property criteria, and use analysis tools.

After that I plan to focus more on cash-flowing markets out of state. 

Invested in CD's or a money market account?

There are a lot of hidden opportunities in our market.

Here’s a 10-step process to get started with out-of-state real estate investing:Research and Select a Market:Identify markets with strong economic fundamentals, job growth, population growth, and potential for real estate appreciation.Consider factors like rental demand, vacancy rates, and local landlord-tenant laws.

I've never marketed it to groups larger than 8, so I don't get as much rent as I could.  

What are the market rents for the property and do you have $15000 for the down and $8000 for all the closing/title/settlement/new impounds?