That's easier said than done, and you're only going to create that level of income if you execute and self manage well.If nothing lights you up, I'd invest in index funds and pull money out at a 5% withdrawal rate (gets you halfway to $40k), stay completely liquid, and have none of the hassle factor.

Curious if anyone has utilized a strategy similar to this and could shed light on their experience.Thanks!

New kitchen, new full bathroom, added half bathroom, new eyebrow porch, new flooring, new paint.What if you did a light value add that projected a value increase enough to cover holding and selling costs, but the market depreciates a little?  

While you stack savings, trade sweat for equity (find the deal, manage a light rehab, or handle books) and learn to raise private money with a one‑page story, clean numbers, clear protections, and steady updates.

Just look at a BP calculator at the 10 year or 30 year mark: money is made with equity, cash flow is just to keep the lights on. 

If you’re open to light/medium rehab, that can really help you force some equity — just make sure the numbers work after repairs and current interest rates. 

At my current pace, I’ll likely hit that goal in 2–3 years.I’m torn between two approaches:Keep saving over the next couple of years, get to 20%, avoid PMI, and be in a stronger financial position.Jump in sooner (maybe next year), put less down, and start gaining experience and appreciation sooner — even if it means PMI or a 30-year loan.For context:I’m in the Austin area, so prices are still pretty high but decreasing.I’m okay with some light DIY or value-add work (I’ve done a bit of construction/repair work before).

With a demanding job and frequent moves, look for simple, rent‑ready or light‑value‑add deals in landlord‑friendly markets and use DSCR or conventional financing; BRRR can work, but only if someone you trust manages rehab while you’re away.

What matters is whether the property qualifies as a rental activity for tax purposes and whether you’ve done a cost segregation study to break out components with shorter useful lives (like appliances, flooring, and fixtures).

Principal changing his name (sometimes just slightly) to walk away from previous recordIMO a light search, like Google, is a good FIRST STEP in vetting a deal.