House hacking is a smart way to build equity while keeping flexibility, especially with your Boston–Providence setup.I’m a licensed real estate advisor based in Rhode Island, I grew up in Providence and I’d be happy to be a resource as you explore options.

also in case it's helpful, these are the 10ish neighborhoods where developers are building new construction. on the east side, you'll see islandview and east village (they border the yellow, which we call the villages - it's a really gorgeous historic district, like boston edison). and islandview and east village are very up-and-coming areas (pretty blown out, so that's why there's lots of land for developers to build on). and with that in mind, those areas (like all around van dyke and kercheval) are popping off and attracting renters and home owners bc of the retail/bars/restaurants that the villages offer (the yellow part of the map). is that info overload?

Consider factors such as proximity to work, schools, amenities, and public transportation.

Proximity to schools, public transportation, and shopping centers can also increase a property's attractiveness to potential renters.Local Market Trends: It's important to stay updated on Columbus's real estate trends, such as any new developments, changes in employment rates, or shifts in the local economy that could impact the rental market.Once you gather more information, visiting Columbus to explore these neighborhoods in person will give you a clearer picture of what will work best for your investment strategy.

The property is in a highly desirable area just outside Boston in walking distance to rapid transit.

West rebound – Dense tech hubs (Denver, Seattle, SLC) posted firm rent gains despite elevated completions.Northeast pull‑back – Boston and New York softened as student leasing slowed earlier than usual.Sunbelt steadies – Florida remained a tale of two coasts: Miami up, Tampa still sliding, but overall Southern rents ticked higher.3.

However she regularly uses my maintenance staff on my unit and occasionally on other units (she recently used them for a few days to furnish a new STR including transporting the furniture - I also believe she under paid them as she paid their usual rate but they provided a trailer and vehicle to get the furniture).    

Newbie looking to buy my first STR in New England (NH or ME) somewhat close to my home which is 20 miles West of Boston.

I feel your pains coming from the South Florida market - I lived in the Greater Boston area in Massachusetts and couldn't afford to buy a LTR in that market.

in the winter.Between the amount we don't pay to the utility and the SRECs (credits), we come out ahead right away and stay ahead for 10 years.At that point, the SRECs go away, but the system is paid off and we have very cheap power.I had our system installed by Boston Solar and was happy with the job they did.