The biggest factor I have seen in Snohomish County is the quality of the property management team after closing.

Investors — real question:What’s the biggest issue you’ve had working with wholesalers?

I'm primarily looking at small multifamily properties (2–4 units) to get started.The biggest challenge I'm running into is the amount of cash needed up front.

What’s your biggest challenge when timing your flips?

Property managers — if you’ve handled both residential and commercial spaces, what’s been your biggest surprise in switching between them?

For those actively investing — what’s been your biggest challenge getting deals financed lately?

What's that ONE repetitive task in your real estate business that eats up way too much of your time?

If you find one, you can add the cost into rent or collect it as a flat monthly fee.Create a small, secure trash area - A fenced or enclosed spot near the top of the driveway can make things easier for tenants or haulers to manage.Consider small incentives for upkeep - I’ve seen owners give a small annual rent credit or gift card for tenants who consistently keep the exterior clean and manage trash properly.

The biggest surprises most people mention are how much due diligence still matters and how different managing paper risk is from managing property risk.

Markets like Houston, TX, Columbus, GA, and parts of the Southeast and Midwest have strong rent demand and developers offering solid builder incentives right now.It’s a great entry point for newer investors who want to start with something newer, stable, and cash-flowing.Always happy to chat more about what's worked for other investors.