DSTs typically have a 2–6 year holding period before the sponsor sells.

That makes a lot of sense.What types of expenses do you typically factor in before shopping?

Other rental strategies typically have higher returns but require more work and can be location dependent:  short-term (by the day aka AirBnB) and mid-term (less than 12 months targeting traveling nurses and other workforce labor).  

Hey @Elena Lyutenko - Assuming you’re considered a US tax resident (which most H1B visa holders are), you can typically claim depreciation, bonus depreciation, and other rental property deductions just like any other taxpayer. 

Things like : which areas rent better than others , does this part of town favor single family or multi family, what / how long is typical vacancy, what makes a property stand out compared to others .

1970 until 1980, US dollar lost 75% of its purchasing power - the typical every 75 to 80 yr government playbook, an inflationary deleveraging, unfortunately looks like it's time again.

When looking for your second property, I’d focus on:Performance over location loyalty — even if Evansville has treated you well, always run fresh numbers to make sure deals still cash flow with current prices, rents, and expenses.Diversification — if your first property is a duplex, consider whether another small multi, a single-family rental, or even a different tenant class would balance your portfolio and risk.Tenant demand & turnover trends — check rent growth, vacancy rates, and neighborhood changes before committing.I work exclusively in the Memphis, TN market, and many investors who start in one city (like Evansville) end up adding Memphis to their portfolio for the strong rent-to-price ratios, steady tenant demand, and landlord-friendly environment.If you ever decide to explore out-of-state options, I can share what returns typically look like here and connect you with trusted local resources so you’re set up with the right team from day one.

Property Condition & Amenities: it’s important to, “Maintain to the Neighborhood.”Key metrics for each Property Class:Class A Properties:Tenant Pool: Majority of FICO scores 680+, no convictions/evictions in last 7 years.Tenant Default: 0-5% probability of eviction or early lease termination.Section 8: Class A rents are too high and won’t be approved.Vacancies: 5-10%, depending on market conditions.Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 3-5 years for positive cashflow, but you get highest relative rent & value appreciation.Class B Properties:Tenant Pool: Majority of FICO scores 620-680, some blemishes, no convictions/evictions in last 5 years.Tenant Default: 5-10% probability of eviction or early lease termination.Vacancies: 10-15%, depending on market conditions.Cashflow vs Appreciation: Typically, 1-3 years for positive cashflow, balanced amounts of relative rent & value appreciation.Section 8: Class B rents are usually too high for the Section 8 program.Class C Properties:Tenant Pool: Majority of FICO scores 560-620, many blemishes, but should have no convictions/evictions in last 3 years.

Sober living homes typically require certain amenities, such as furnished living spaces, common areas, and kitchen facilities.

This new build now cash-flows with less money down than typical or, as a flip it makes six figures.The reason why this works: In Boise, building lots are selling for minimum $150k to builders, and up to $350k+ depending on location.