Quote from @Tiffany Alfaro: Hi everyone, I’m looking for some advice.I recently spoke with a loan officer and was approved for about $245k for a condo.

Our OPINION:1) Adding license contractors should be no big deal if they cooperate with supplying copy of license, proof of insurance (and add PMC as additionally insured) and sign a W-9.2) Charging for estimates is not typically done - unless owner wants multiple bids beyond 2.3) Often doesn't make sense to waste time & effort getting a 2nd bid for specific items PMC does often or for bids under $x amount.Otherwise a 2nd bid should be done.4) How do they assess issues then?

@Gin Zhuang The Ciy of Flint, Michigan had a major issue with lead pipes a few years ago that scared a lot of people.What people fail to realize is that MANY homes in this country, built before 1950 have lead pipes from the city supply and may have internal lead pipes. 

Quote from @Genesis Carrasco: Abel, really appreciate your insight especially coming from someone who has contributed so much to this community.I’m at the beginning of my journey as a loan officer, and honestly, I couldn’t imagine building any long term relationship without honesty at the center.

.- 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!

Groups that move quickly on large land plays usually include experienced land developers, family offices, private equity real estate shops, or institutional-leaning partners who already have dry powder and a track record with entitlement risk.

@Jason Taken, with higher interest rates and increased supply cost, has there been any changes in the strategy? 

The supply chain will need a decade to find new sourcing.  

That means your STR losses, especially if you do a cost segregation to accelerate depreciation (don't forget about deducting furniture, supplies, utilities, cleaning, and repairs) can offset your W-2 or other active income.So even if you can’t hit REPs in 2025 because of your W-2 job, you may have already qualified for the STRs rules without realizing it.

It's important to note, there are two big economic factors that contribute to declining rents (supply & demand).