It was during this challenging time that I made a decision to prioritize saving money on a monthly basis.

We prioritize OUR lifestyle and free time over income.   

While economic uncertainty typically dampens discretionary spending, including vacations, there remains a segment of travelers who prioritize unique and budget-friendly lodging options that STRs offer.

Here are some pros and cons of each approach to help you decide:Paying Cash for One Home and Refinancing LaterPros:No Mortgage Payments: You won't have monthly mortgage payments initially, which can reduce financial stress.Equity: You own the home outright, giving you full equity which can be used for refinancing.Lower Costs: No interest payments and possibly lower closing costs compared to having a mortgage.Better Negotiation Power: Cash buyers often have more negotiating power and can close deals faster.Cons:Opportunity Cost: Your cash is tied up in one property, potentially limiting your ability to invest in other opportunities.Refinancing Risks: Future interest rates may be higher, making refinancing more expensive.Market Fluctuations: Property values might decrease, affecting the amount you can refinance.Buying Four Homes with 20% Down on EachPros:Diversification: Owning multiple properties diversifies your investment, reducing risk.Rental Income: Potential rental income from multiple properties can generate cash flow.Appreciation: You benefit from the appreciation of multiple properties.Leverage: Using mortgages allows you to leverage your investments, potentially increasing your return on investment.Cons:Higher Debt: You'll have multiple mortgage payments, increasing your debt and financial obligations.Management: Managing multiple properties can be more complex and time-consuming.Market Risks: Market downturns can affect all properties, amplifying risks.Cash Flow: If rental income is not enough to cover mortgage payments, you could face cash flow issues.Considerations:Financial Stability: Assess your current financial stability and ability to handle mortgage payments and potential vacancies.Market Conditions: Consider current and projected real estate market conditions and interest rates.Investment Goals: Align your decision with your long-term investment goals and risk tolerance.Professional Advice: Consult with a financial advisor or real estate professional to get personalized advice based on your specific situation.If you prioritize lower risk and less debt, paying cash for one home might be the better option.

My Experience with Upside Investments:As someone who prioritizes my time but recognizes the potential for wealth creation in real estate, the idea of traditional, hands-on investment wasn't ideal.

Slack is a great chat collaboration tool.

Side notes here to keep in mind, the market is crazy right now and lenders are prioritizing home purchases vs. refinancing due to limited labor availability.

You can hire a PM after you buy, prioritize thorough market research and number crunching to see if the investment works.

Finding a loan officer who comprehensively understands their underwriting guidelines and the nuances of real estate investments can significantly streamline the process and set clear expectations from the start.In many cases, lenders operate in a structured manner where loan officers initiate the process and then collaborate with processors to gather necessary documents and address any underwriting revisions promptly.

I would love to visit with who you set up in NB to see if we are in alignment and may want to collaborate on new projects.