Also, don’t feel locked into your backyard; a lot of new investors overlook out-of-state markets where the same $50k can go much further.

My partner actually got me hooked on the BP podcast about a year ago, and we’re officially ready to stop lurking and start building a better future for our family.We’re currently eyeing STR/MTR out of state, but I’m also keeping my eyes peeled for anything in our own backyard (even if the LA prices are a bit wild).I’m here to learn as much as possible, but I also want to be useful.

In fact, we had one guest who hung out with her nephew in the backyard watching the construction.

What Tenants Want in FresnoFor a large home like a 1960s, 4 bed / 2.5 bath with pool/spa, you’re in a good spot for family stays, corporate stays, and extended travel nurses — especially if the interior has been updated and outdoor spaces are inviting.Features that perform well here:✅ Good internet (important for remote work)✅ Furnished or semi-furnished options (adds appeal for MTR)✅ Clean, modern bathrooms and kitchens✅ Dedicated workspace / office nook✅ Fenced backyard + pool maintenance included3.

My dilemma is that I live in a very expensive market, and it’s been tough to find a property that offers good value and allows for positive cash flow.Here’s where I could use your advice:Do I keep searching locally in my backyard (where my W2 job is, and where living in the property would allow me to use the VA loan for house hacking)?

You already have boots-on-the-ground market knowledge, and it’s much easier to handle maintenance, upkeep, and tenant management locally.Your first investment will certainly come with a learning curve—and probably a few mistakes—but investing in your own backyard helps reduce risk while you build experience.

One last thing, never, ever trust a real estate agent who wears a flat brimmed baseball hat!

I personally only invest in my backyard, Birmingham.

While the area is currently more rural and less developed than Wake County, we do see ongoing and planned development nearby, which makes this location tempting from a long-term perspective.Property details:Built in 2012Ranch-style home with 3 bedrooms and 2 bathroomsApproximately 2 acres of landLarge backyard, with part of the lot wooded with mature treesListed around $360KAdditional factors we’re considering:The home is on a septic system (no sewer line currently), but has public waterSchool ratings are not very strong at the momentAlthough it borders Wake County and is close to Fuquay-Varina, it is officially in Harnett County, so taxes, zoning, and school districts differWe’re trying to weigh:Long-term appreciation potential in a Wake-border Harnett locationImpact of septic vs. future sewer expansion on value and maintenanceRental demand given school ratings and rural settingWhether acreage (2 acres) adds meaningful investment value in this areWe’d really appreciate input from anyone familiar with Harnett County, the Wake/Harnett border areas, or who has invested in similar transitional or rural markets.

So minimal damage, and I have had one guy move in for 7 months, his dog pulled up all the grass in the backyard and some other stuff which cost us the full security deposit $3,600.00.