Now it is a single-family long-term rental.

Long story short, I have 3 properties in my own personal name: Small multi-family properties (a 4 unit and detached garage bank, another 4 unit, and a 3 unit) that I had residential HELOCs on in the second position, with a fixed residential in the first position. 

It is the best way to break into REI IMO.VA financing is about as good as it gets in the financing world right now; generally better terms and rates and you can take advantage of 0% down.

The opportunity for outsized profits versus LTR always exists, because it requires much more work in terms of marketing, maintenence, cleaning.

A squatter is not on your lease or subject to its terms.

I think as long as you let them know you are providing services and will get paid for it.

For a property like this, even in California, I would anticipate at least a +7% CR.Additionally, betting on appreciation is speculative and not the best approach to long-term investing.

I'm Joey Prainito from Long Island N.Y.

If you plan on staying long term lower down payment is not as meaningful as it is if you only plan on staying for a few years. 

Assess if you have enough time for tasks like tenant screening and maintenance.Expertise: Professional managers know landlord-tenant laws and property maintenance best practices.Cost vs. benefit: Weigh management fees against potential savings and efficiencies professionals might offer.Property location: Distance from your home to the property matters.Number of units: More properties increase management complexity.Stress tolerance: Consider your comfort level with tenant interactions and problem-solving.Long-term goals: Professional management can free you to focus on expanding your real estate portfolio.