Re-read your contracts, document your correspondence (and attempts) with your builder and demand documentation to match up any payments/draws with what's actually been competed on your build.

Providing a combination of salary and bonuses allowed us to attract and retain talented underwriters who were aligned with our long-term goals.Here's a pro tip I've learned along the way: matching the right people to the right jobs is gold.

Security Deposit (all security deposits live here until they need to be paid back) Interesting!

Hi @Kenneth Kirkland, When you buy a property, the assets transfer but money like security deposits or reserve funds doesn’t automatically.

Make sure the current rent matches market rates or you’ll feel stuck until renewal.

They may charge you (at your age, I would not suggest paying for a mentor), or they may expect you to work for them for little or no money...if they expect you to work for them, they usually will want you to bring some proven experience and skills to the table that will benefit them--but at 19, most people don't have much experience to offer (that's not your fault, it's just an inherent part of being a young adult)....but don't worry, because even if you could find a mentor right now, a mentor might not even be the best use of your time at this stage...In some cases, a mentor might actually get in the way of your success (especially if your mentor isn't well-matched to your style, interests, goals, etc).

As a broker, my biggest pet peeves are hard money lenders circumventing to my clients, not being upfront about fees, asking for a commitment fee prior to issuing loan docs, and "matching" my broker fees, even though I underwrote the file, got the client, and did all of the processing work. 

As both a landlord and a local investor in Boca Raton, I’ve seen how deposit disputes and inconsistent inspections can cause real frustration for both owners and tenants.That’s why I started offering independent, photo-verified move-in/out documentation services for landlords, property managers, and short-term rental hosts.We provide:Neutral, third-party documentation (so owners stay compliant and protected)Flat-fee inspections starting at $9924–48 hr turnaround with photo/video reportsOptional cleaning or repair coordination add-onsCurious if others here are doing this or outsourcing similar work?

Even if you’re not in the U.S. yet, this market can work really well with the right team on the ground.A few quick guidelines:South Side:• Generally more stable for new investors• Strong rental demand• Solid cash-flow neighborhoods like Layton Blvd, Burnham Park, Lincoln VillageNorth Side:• Higher cash flow potential but also higher management needs• Only recommended if you have a strong local property manager and contractor• Look for pockets near Sherman Park, Midtown, Old North MilwaukeeIf you want, I can share a more detailed neighborhood breakdown or help you match the right area to your budget and strategy.

Tenants tell me about lease prep fees deducted from security deposits, annual financial suitability reviews with an added fee, yearly tenant insurance checks with an added fee, pet registration fees (separate from pet rent or pet deposits), annual inspections charged to tenants and other small add-ons that feel like nickel & diming.Are margins really so tight that landlords have to manufacture revenue through these junk fees?