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. 

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

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.

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?  

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).

I would recommend using your backyard hot tub photo, adding in a sunset and string lights.

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).

Light value-add with predictable turns beats “hero rehabs” over long hold cycles.• Renovation speed and cost control consistently outperform squeezing every last dollar.• Strong deal funnels.

Instead of howling at the dark, @John Clark: why don't you light a lamp for those who are lost? 

For a first flip, target light-to-mid rehabs in C to B areas with multiple comps and days-on-market under your hold period; build a tight scope and hire a GC you’ve vetted with references, pay by milestones, and keep a contingency.