Quote from @Donna Tuite: The market feels different depending on where you invest—some areas are slowing, others remain competitive. 

But I am pointing out that the entry point remains high comparatively speaking, it's saturated and competitive, and listing inventory and days on market is skyrocketing and outpaces anything else in TN or NC.

Amortization Schedule – simple but helpful for clarity; shows the payment breakdown and remaining balance over time.5.

I work with a lending group and have seen how quick and flexible financing keeps projects on schedule.

Love that you’re taking the leap into real estate—it’s such a powerful way to build freedom and flexibility.

It stretched me beyond just writing a check — I had to think about how financing, cash flow, and title work across multiple properties interact.Challenges & Lessons Learned (as the funding partner):Title coordination: Watching the operators juggle multiple closings at once gave me an appreciation for how complex portfolios can be compared to single deals.Cash flow management: I saw firsthand how critical it is to plan rehab draws carefully when several properties are in motion at the same time.Exit flexibility: From the lender’s seat, I realized how valuable it is when operators have multiple exit strategies (hold, refinance, sell individually).

As an investor, the top thing I look for in a financing partner is flexibility and the ability to structure terms that work for both sides while keeping the deal moving.

STRs in smaller markets are tricky — a couple soft months can kill your return.If it were me, I’d either:Negotiate harder on price (closer to payoff, not $240k),Or pivot this into a lease option or seller carry that minimizes your upfront cash and risk.You’re not crazy for exploring it — it’s just a thin deal unless the seller’s super flexible.

And I'm a HUGE proponent of building up large taxable accounts as they give you a crazy amount of flexibility both before, and during retirement. 

All are set to instant book but I do not have super flexible cancellation policies (I think I am Firm).