Smart locks are becoming more common in rentals, especially short-term and multifamily units.Pros:No need to rekey between tenantsCan grant/revoke access remotely (great for maintenance or showings)Access logs for added securityTenants like the convenienceCons:Dependence on batteries or Wi-Fi—can fail if not maintainedSome tenants may be uncomfortable with perceived privacy concernsHigher upfront cost and potential for tech support issuesIf the system fails, physical access could be a problemFor long-term rentals, a keypad lock with manual override might be a better balance—still allows for code changes without rekeying, but avoids some of the tech pitfalls of smart locks tied to Wi-Fi or apps.Whatever you choose, just make sure there's a backup access method and clear communication with tenants about how it's managed.

I am drawn by the low barrier of entry of markets like Montgomery Alabama, and also considering Section 8 rentals (pending Trump admin changes).Do you have experience in this market?

It took Jimmy physically going back, coordinating with the agent, renting a U-Haul himself, and walking the seller through every step just to get him out.

Fill out pdf's for each tenant/unit, print them, put in envelopes one for mail and one to put on the door, stamp each envelope and address, physically deliver to properties all over the state.

While he is correct, his conclusion reiterates that there are barriers to your basis increase/gain reduction.

That’s why I'm excited to announce that Invelo now has  AI Driving for Dollars—and no, it doesn’t require a single mile on your car.Here’s what it does:🧠 Uses AI + Google Street ViewIt scans properties virtually and looks for signs of physical distress like boarded-up windows, overgrown lawns, peeling paint, roof damage, etc.📍 You Control the AreaJust draw a box on the map around the neighborhood or zip code you want to target.

Even if you tell them you'll do anything they need you're putting the burden on them to figure out what to do with you and creating another barrier to entry for you.You could proactively drive for dollars and bring a list of pre vetted deals to the meetup, you can offer to maintain a properties yard and flower beds, you can power wash properties, you can offer to help prep properties between tenants, or any other number of things you think you could excel at. 

As noted, if the tenants are paying on time and pay with physical check, it is already in the mail and made out to the seller before the first. 

I prefer to invest in properties that I can physically get to relatively easily, but since you know the area well, and if you feel like you have a team there locally that can help you I don't see anything wrong with investing there.My 2 concerns are that this area might actually be a C- neighborhood because I like to over estimate my property grades, and that the $200 a month cashflow won't cover your expenses.

The main shift will be accounting for the physical and management aspects of real estate: property condition, tenant relationships, local regulations, etc.Here’s a suggestion to get the ball rolling:Start identifying your buy box—what type of property, in what kind of market, at what price range, and what return metrics you're targeting.Explore turnkey and value-add rentals, especially in landlord-friendly markets in the Midwest or Southeast (if you're open to investing out of state).Leverage your network—you may already have contacts in finance or real estate who can connect you with off-market deals, brokers, or investor-friendly lenders.Once you’re ready to run numbers or evaluate a specific market, happy to walk through the process with you.