Why would you consider buying property thousands of miles away that goes down in value over time when you have properties in your own backyard that go up in value over time?

We painted the whole house ourselves (talk about sweat equity), had a 320 foot privacy fence built in the backyard, updated both bathrooms, and swapped out mirrors, lights, and other fixtures to modernize it.

Still, the average person looks at their monthly payment when determining what house they will buy.If their buddy is paying 3k/m for a 4 bed 3600sqft house with private backyard yada yada, but you can only buy a townhouse with 2000sqft for 3k a month, it makes it difficult for the average person to pull the trigger right now.Has AZ soon a return in prices or the prices still lower than peaks?

I also suggest you hookup with a turn Key operator or find a way to make it work in your own back yard.  

I get the prices are very tempting in places like OH but I've found what you learn from investing in your own backyard is invaluable.

I don't depend on luck, but I consistently, systematically, and conservatively put myself in luck's path ... as result, I'm a very lucky guy :) I'm not knocking those who invest purely for cash flow and live in markets that justify such a strategy, but it is not the only way possible to consistently make money, I do not live in such a market, don't wish to move to such a market, got my behind handed to me attempting to invest remotely in such a market, and since I have my strategy wired locally there is no reason for me to stray from home as there is a ton of opportunity to make great profit in my own backyard.

I am using a VA loan and I am currently located in Virginia beach with the following search criteria: SFR 4/2 with a backyard ( garage is a bonus) , 1600+ sqft with a market time of 40+ days, minor repairs or modifications needed are welcome. 

Had a Tenant leave a large RV in my back yard. 

Shop local for banks, as the best rates might be in your backyard.

-Main level is 3 bed/ 2 bath-Basement mother-in-law is 2 bed/ 1 bath-$530,000 price point-2,000+ sqftWhy I like it-Separate entrance to the basement-High bedroom and bath count-Ability for 2 sets of washer and dryer-Basement bedrooms already had egress windows-Plenty of parkingPotential renovations-Framing small wall to give guest on the main level privacy-Exterior landscaping-backyard privacy fence for guestsWhat my numbers look like AFTER moving outA Few Photos Summary:Numbers for this property are VERY tight with the higher interest rates.