Ready to dive in- have $200,000 to invest

[Heather Fultz]

I've been looking for turnkey properties to invest in (first timer) in Anywhere, USA for around $200-300k for the STR market. My focus has been on University towns with football. I've been checking out South bend. I live in California and will be using PM company.

I can afford an overhead, when not rented of about $1000 per month.

Is it better to buy a condo or house? Is maintenance on a "solid" house cheaper than expensive HOA fees?

For my first property, is it A: better to pay cash and see how it cash flows or always use loans and save money for down payment and other investments?

What percentage is a good C on C return?

If I go with Notre Dame, how much can I get per night for home games on a 2/2 house?

I’m honestly not great with numbers, which is where Airtics and Airdna come in. I’ve been waffling over vacation destinations, being just one season and Uni’s with football teams, have been deep dive researching this for a couple of months and keep chasing different cities. I’m starting to feel analysis paralysis and could use all of the guiding you’re will to share with me!