Include maintenance, vacancies, and capital reserves from day one.Learn landlord-tenant laws for NY early, especially for Hudson Valley—this will save you headaches.If possible, live in the least desirable unit and improve it last; that maximizes upside while you’re there.House hacking is a powerful way to reduce risk, learn property management, and build confidence before scaling.

For me it's the coordination of timing in between tenants to maximize rent and minimize vacancy.

With a 620 score, the path that usually maximizes access while preserving flexibility is to separate “rate optimization” from “equity access.”In your case, a traditional cash-out refi may be limited by credit and seasoning, while a HELOC may cap proceeds or come with volatility.

One vacant unit to show maximizes interest and allows for a controlled first showing.  

#5 Final Grade & Hardscaping - Many developers will find it necessary to create a flat area for some semblance of a yard to maximize value.

A lot of investors I work with use alternative strategies to maximize buying power without tying up all their cash.

As a property manager, I work closely with investors on rental property analysis, tenant management, and maximizing returns, so if you ever want to bounce ideas, review leases, or look into rental market numbers, I’d be happy to help.Looking forward to sharing strategies and learning from each other here!

Successful operators maximize offseason programming (events, summer activities) to stabilize cash flow.Waterpark ResortsWhat defines them:Waterpark resorts include indoor or outdoor aquatic facilities of at least 10,000 square feet, featuring slides, pools, and interactive attractions designed to drive demand.Investor considerations:• Family-oriented demand with strong repeat visitation• Indoor parks can reduce seasonality• Water attractions significantly boost length of stay and ancillary spendKey risks:• Substantial upfront construction and mechanical costs• Ongoing safety, staffing, and maintenance requirements• Higher insurance and operational oversightInvestor takeaway:Waterpark resorts function as entertainment-anchored hospitality assets.

It's helpful to work with a mortgage broker as these programs are not advertised directly to the public the way conventional loan programs and mortgage brokers can help investors save money on rates, fees and help find solutions that maximize cash flow and profit. 

I can also plug you into trusted local property managers and agents who know the market well and can maximize your rent.