For the house you described (new build, 2025, two-story, 4BR/2.5BA, 1,800 sqft), here’s how I’d think about it:Routine maintenance: On newer homes, you won’t have as many big ticket surprises for the first 5–10 years (roof, HVAC, plumbing, etc. should all be solid).

I'm honestly surprised the HOA isn't doing much, especially when there are blatant violations other than noise, like livestock in the front yard. 

It sounds like you just need very basic information, and beginner info is easy to come by for free, so I would only pay for the convenience of having structured lesson plan of information, not for the information itself.Once you have the basics, then you can start seeking out experts in specific areas, where the value of their information is much higher because it dives deep into a specific topic.  

We are doing one know that an $8,000 expense we had not expected but had set aside a contingency for You will ALWAYS have surprises.  

What surprises did folks get on their first flip and fix?

While Zelle is convenient, it’s pretty unofficial and lacks the structure you need for proper record-keeping.

Were there any surprises (good or bad) you didn’t see coming?

I have been looking at small towns across the West and stumbled across one that completely surprised me.

💸 Tax season is predictable — yet many property managers treat it like a surprise.❌ The common mistake: collecting rents all year without setting aside a tax reserve.

HOA's scare me a little with the assessment fees and all the possible surprises.