At this point, you’re basically investing remotely either way, so you might as well choose a market where numbers are stronger and property management is already built out.Some out-of-state markets that are beginner-friendly with solid rent-to-price ratios:Akron & Canton, OH – Affordable entry points, consistent rental demand, strong cash flow.Columbus, GA – Stable military/manufacturing economy, good PM availability, lots of rent-ready inventory.Huntsville, AL – Job growth + appreciation play, still landlord-friendly.Birmingham, AL – Cash flow focus with reliable PM options for out-of-state owners.Since you already have access to the $60K HELOC, consider using it strictly for down payments rather than renovations.

Part of my unspoken "screening" is to see if they follow the instructions to call for scheduling; and, do they show up at all/on time for the showing.

That owner will naturally outwork the manager—because they're doing management work plus operational work.The regulation rewards actual effort, not manufactured participation.You can't be passive in reality and active for tax purposes.

Unless the litigation involves a manufacturing defect in the car, pass.

My background is in technical consulting, where I built and automated systems for large manufacturing companies.I’d like to connect with other investors, agents, and wholesalers who are:Actively buying or selling through wholesale channelsLooking for ways to speed up or simplify deal analysisOpen to sharing insights on how they manage the volume of leads coming inIf you buy from wholesalers or manage lists yourself, I’d love to connect and exchange ideas.

I quit my manufacturing job in September due to health issues.

Mainly manufactured housing, conversions, ground-up construction and very targeted flips and BRRRRs. 

There are several other out-of-state cities that can give you stronger cash flow and easier scaling, especially as a long-distance investor.Other Markets to Consider:Akron / Canton, OH – Very affordable, excellent rent-to-price ratios, stable economyHuntsville, AL – High job growth, strong appreciation, landlord-friendlyBirmingham, AL – Low purchase prices, reliable cash flow, good PM infrastructureColumbus, GA – Military + manufacturing presence = stable rents, growing job marketTips for Picking the Right Market:Run the numbers first – GRM, cap rate, cash flow after taxes, insurance, PM fees, and vacancyTalk to local property managers – get real maintenance & turnover costsVisit or virtually tour neighborhoods – check schools, crime, amenitiesUse conservative underwriting – always build in a cushionI’d suggest comparing 2–3 of these markets side by side before making your first purchase.

. — a Taiwanese Fortune Global 500 electronics contract manufacturer focused on artificial intelligence computing services for clients like Dell Technologies Inc., Tesla Inc. and Apple Inc. — is officially headed to Georgetown.

I still have a W2 (Frequent travel...) so self-management isn't my plan for now.I also have a couple of pieces of property in North Georgia that I would like to build out with a small single-family home or even a manufactured home.