I know that something has to change and I want to explore purchasing real estate.

I am based in Tampa but have frequently explored that area over the years. 

This town is growing and probably 10 years out from being fantastic. 

Purchase price: $189,000 Cash invested: $40,000 Mid-term rental property in a college town.

Purchase price: $189,000 Cash invested: $40,000 Mid-term rental property in a college town.

I’m currently diving into the world of rental property investing and exploring opportunities in my local market.

We're exploring creative ways to provide him with the cash needed for the down payment while avoiding triggering a taxable event.One strategy we're considering is purchasing his future primary residence ourselves, making the mortgage payments, and then, once we've built enough equity—comparable to the appraised value of his rental properties—transferring the title to him as a form of exchange.What are your thoughts on this approach?

For funding, explore options like FHA loans, personal savings, or creative financing, and focus on New Jersey markets that align with your goals, such as Newark for rentals or commuter towns for house hacking.

This vary heavily town to town. 20% down is great if buying strictly as investment but if you have a way of owner occupying I would explore that route and apply the 20% down to increasing value of property and instead using low money down loan. 

While the property is in a smaller town, it’s relatively close to a larger city, which I think adds a lot of potential for attracting both short-term guests and long-term tenants.The motel has fewer than 16 rooms, and the nightly rates are extremely competitive for the area.