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.

@Jessica Yuan you are entering RE at a challenging time were a lot of long time investors are sitting on the sidelines when it comes to but and hold.You will qualify for a little more if you but a multi family as part of the rent goes to the income qualification.

That said, the cash flow potential can be strong if it’s managed right and near a steady university presence.I’ve seen a few investors make it work well by focusing on strong lease structuring (individual room leases, for example), all-inclusive utilities, and building solid relationships with university housing offices.I’m involved in lending, and I’ve come across some creative setups in this space that were really eye-opening.

I have ~ $400k cash available and am willing to buy property with cash down, with a long-term goal of building my portfolio over the next 5 years. 

I would look to acquire as much as possible so long as the property cash flows after you leave and it reduces your housing expense.

Keep saving and stay focused on your long-term goal!

Jackson does have its challenges with population trends, but if your team on the ground is strong and your numbers are solid, you might be better off holding and keeping a close eye rather than making a reactive move.

.: Quote from @David Lecko: Eric, When did you last use DealMachine?

Quote from @Marc Shin: An easy one I used for a long time www.mysmartmove.com.

Many builders use incentives to remain competitive while maintaining base pricing for valuation purposes, but I agree that transparency and long-term affordability, including property taxes, are crucial.I’d be happy to keep an eye out for any upcoming opportunities where builders may be offering price reductions or more favorable terms, and I’m always here to help you navigate through those options when the time is right.Let’s stay in touch and revisit when you’re ready to explore what’s available!