If you're not already plugged into a strong local team in your target markets, it can eat into both time and returns.An alternative to consider, especially for diversification and immediate cash flow is to invest in multiple turnkey rental properties across landlord-friendly markets in the Midwest or Southeast.

The BiggerPockets podcasts are a goldmine, and just tuning in already puts you ahead of most people.When you’re ready to take action, consider starting with a turnkey rental property in the Midwest or Southeast--markets like Indianapolis, Memphis, or Birmingham still offer affordable entry points, solid cash flow, and professional property management for new investors.Keep stacking knowledge, but don’t wait forever to make your first move.

I’d look at:Turnkey long-term rentals (LTRs) in affordable, landlord-friendly marketsSmall multifamily (duplex/quad) in the Midwest or Southeast“Light rehab” rental with a local team if you’re confident managing from a distanceThese approaches let you leverage your project management background without putting all your time or capital at risk up front.2.

I do believe that the south east is a great place to invest.

.* Look into turnkey rental properties in the Midwest or Southeast where you can start with less capital and strong property management support.Even if you don’t buy right away, you can start analyzing deals weekly - it’s free and builds real confidence.3.

You don’t need to start big, just start smart.Consider looking into turnkey rental properties in the Midwest and Southeast (like Indianapolis, Birmingham, or Memphis).

You’ll likely need to look in strong cash-flowing markets like parts of the Midwest or Southeast think Indianapolis, Memphis, or Birmingham where cap rates are higher and expenses are more manageable.To truly net 7% after property management, taxes, insurance, and maintenance, you'll need properties with at least 7.5–8% cap rates.

Target Landlord-Friendly, Affordable MarketsMarkets in the Midwest and Southeast, like Alabama, Missouri, Indiana, and parts of Florida or the Carolinas, are ideal for investors starting out.

I work with investors across many landlord-friendly markets in the Midwest and Southeast, and with nearly 15 years of experience in the real estate industry, my role is to help clients evaluate which markets align with their individual investment goals, whether that’s cash flow, appreciation, or a mix of both.You’re absolutely right that Huntsville has tightened in recent years - particularly in turnkey inventory and price-to-rent ratios, which are often closer to 0.5%–0.7% now.

I moved to southeast CT back in July 2024 and I will be moving in a few months most likely, moving to the DC area where (unsure where in DC area still) I will probably live for another year and then move to be with my significant other who is going to med school but we don’t even know where she is going yet so it’s not like I can do research on the area ahead of time such that I can be ready to buy when I move.