Buy in a market with consistent historical appreciation—typically where there’s limited housing supply, population growth, job creation, good weather, and proximity to a major airport.

Just as it's hard to comprehend all elevators needing to be individually/physically operated by a person, like they were up to ~1960.An example of many.For Real Estate Investors: The consumer will hold up (absent some new exogenous economic shock), which will drive modest rent growth through next year (1-3%). 2027, however, should be the start of rent growth recovery, with 2028+ even stronger, and so on.

In addition, it's best to be close to a beach access point. better Proximity with an older home could do better than a new construction home built at the end of the street close to highway 98. 

@Joshua Hughes I generally like to look at the physical characteristics first and make sure those fundamentals are sound. 

But numbers on a screen don’t replace:Negotiation leverage – A seasoned agent knows how to structure terms, not just price, to win deals.Boots on the ground – Someone has to physically verify property condition, meet inspectors, and ensure you’re not inheriting hidden problems.Local market insight – Zillow comps are not always accurate.Transaction management – Coordinating title, contractors, appraisers, tenants, and property managers takes systems and experience.For out-of-state investors, paying an agent’s fee isn’t just about MLS access, it’s about protecting your investment, avoiding costly mistakes, and maximizing ROI.

Stability vs upside:Pilsen will likely continue to appreciate faster, proximity to downtown, 18th Street development, and strong rental demand, but that comes with volatility: higher taxes, ongoing gentrification debates, and limited long-term rental affordability.Avondale, on the other hand, is more stable, solid tenant base, steady growth, and most properties there have already been hit with their reassessments.

Consider North Myrtle Beach--I'm doing well there in a SFH, and many reviews mention its proximity to the beach and activities of MB.

Digitize physical receipts for easy storage and use a consistent naming convention for easy sorting - 2024.03.25 Home Depot.- Maintain proper records, such as contracts, settlement statements, and promissory notes.Additionally, you can track income and expenses consistently using software or spreadsheets.As you scale, if bookkeeping isn't fun, consider hiring a bookkeeper for a couple hundred bucks per month.

The tax pro search seems to let you filter by proximity.

The only option is to have things in the physical house directing them to book direct next time.