@Taylor Evans I understand your concerns about TBTF, but most banks that would finance an investment property are TSTC (Too Small To Care).

Beyond the financial benefits, they value the reliability and stability of these investments, which makes it easier to continue expanding their portfolios over time.

Nothing wrong with parking the not-yet-invested portion in HYSA while you phase in.Gold vs HYSA for the staging money.Gold is a volatility asset, not a parking lot.

As an owner of a 72 unit complex and a bunch of single families I would say talk with someone in the space before you dive in too deep it is not all roses like some folks like to say, there are challenges that each type of investment poses.I saw you added a unit on another you have, be sure anything you do or buy has it permitted that way,  not fund to be on the other end of an insurance claim for something that went wrong in an unpermitted unit. 

@Jonathan LeungIf you search The Investors Guide To Memphis Real Estate wherever you listen to podcasts,  YouTube or Facebook (All over Tiktok and IG as well) you will be able to see our Memphis TN Investment Zip Code break down where I talk price points, rental ranges and sales figures form year to year.

Doing an investment property, for many, has a very similar feel of picking a singular stock to invest in. 

The Twin Cities isn't the best market for cash flow compared to other midwest markets but I think it's a solid place to invest for the long-term. 

I have invested in the suburbs outside of Chicago and it has been a great experience.

.- These will be investment properties, not primary residences, as I currently live in San Francisco, CA.- I've already started the pre-approval process with a credit union based in North Carolina, but I'd love some help understanding how to structure the gift of equity correctly for investment properties, what documentation may be required, and if there are any specific limitations or tax implications I should consider.- My goal is to close on both homes by the end of the year or early next year.If anyone has experience with gift of equity transactions for invest properties -- especially in North Carolina or involving out-of-state buyers -- or can recommend a loan officer, lender, or real estate attorney familiar with this setup, I'd really appreciate your insight.Thanks in advance!

Thanks in advance, BrianThat’s going to be somewhat difficult, but not impossible.Wealth manager, financial advisor, investment manager, etc training is different than real estate investing.