I incorporated smart home technology, such as automated lighting, heating, and security systems, which is highly desirable in today’s market.

With a budget of $300K-$400K, you could potentially find single-family homes or small multi-units in those areas.I'd recommend researching rental demand near universities like Duke or NC State or even checking out neighborhoods with strong job growth near tech hubs.

In another market, permitting is 5 months with a 8 month build time for the same home.

Similar to you I was doing well in real estate, had 3 cashflowing properties as well as my primary home and then thought it would be a good idea to flip some early 1900's homes.

Being nearby allows you to stay hands-on—you can see, touch, and fully immerse yourself in the process.There’s a lot to learn, not just about managing rentals but also about overseeing property management companies.Handling tenants and maintenance can feel overwhelming at times, but starting with a property close to home gives you the opportunity to gain valuable experience.

I was told that Freddie Mac may finance a portfolio of single family homes.

Do you have other assets you can leverage (like a home equity loan) for that amount?

I hopped on the roof with the garden hose to defend the property (even though initially it was contained) when suddenly an ember spread to a palm tree (that had been neglected to be trimmed for years) that instantaneously atomized/vaporized into hundreds of embers and spotted fires on several homes.

Or should I create the LLC and purchase the home under that?

Buying a mobile home to place on your land can be a great way to generate rental income, but like any investment, it comes with pros, cons, and key considerations.On the pro side, mobile homes are typically more affordable than traditional single-family homes, meaning lower upfront costs.