Interest rates priced buyers out of the market because the returns no longer made sense. 

And lastly, it is one of the few remaining markets that you can get a 'steal' for a property.....all I recommend is that you rely on your 'boots on the ground' to point you in the right area codes.  5/30/24 Update:  I have been patiently waiting until our court date to reply to this post. 

What market are you looking to exchange into?

I am seeking advice on the most ideal location in terms of ease of renting, a strong rental market, and potential future appreciation in value over the next 5-10 years.

Especially in this market with a house hack- that is the golden ticket!

I personally love the Cleveland market for its cash flow.

Paola's growing market further enhanced its appeal.

@Mark Enis I'll let the other experts chime in, but my understanding with a conventional mortgage, they don't want any part of the deal to be borrowed funds. 

In general, RE realized the largest appreciation rate post pandemic due to easy money spurring investor demand, and depending on the market, the mass wave of demand entering into the STR market.

I've been interested in investing since about August of last year, and I finally decided on my avenue and my target markets around mid April of this year after getting over some analysis paralysis.