The downside is slower portfolio growth unless you can leverage this property for future deals.A practical approach is to run the numbers for both scenarios (project cash flow, appreciation, and your timeline to scale) and compare which aligns with your goals.

@Ahron BenmerguiAhron, you don’t need to overthink it—both are important, but I usually recommend getting your first property in motion while simultaneously setting up the basic business structure.

Many of these states are within two hours of each other and are well-established vacation and second-home destinations, making them highly practical from both an investment and personal-use standpoint. 

For higher-end buyers or properties where presentation is critical, this can sometimes justify waiting.A practical middle ground is to prepare the listing now, take high-quality photos of the completed sections, and note the pending window replacements with a clear completion date.

I think that locking in a basic buy box 2-4 units, FHA/VA/low-down options, specific neighborhoods and beginning weekly property tours is the best way to put learning into practice.

It’s awesome to see someone with your background and drive starting to put theory into practice.

Happy to connect and share what’s actually working in practice if that helps.

I’ve seen that list floating around, but in practice the number isn’t what matters.

At your stage, the best moves are learning the basics, analyzing practice deals every day, and surrounding yourself with investors so you build confidence and direction.

You’ll want the lease to address shared spaces, responsibilities, cleaning expectations, quiet hours, and other practical rules.Above all, take your time with screening.