Invest out of state where you can actually have control over your property and not live under the crushing weight of red tape. 

Sell the note when:You need liquidity for a higher ROI deal (buying discounted notes, rehabs, new projects, etc.).You see borrower or market risk — maybe payments are spotty or property values look shaky.You’re sitting on a big discount spread and can lock in a solid profit now.Selling early can reset your capital faster — even if you give up some long-term income, you get flexibility to reinvest at a higher return or diversify.3.

Did it help you grow your portfolio faster, or were there trade-offs you wish you’d known about?

The lower it goes from that mark the faster it moves, to the point of yes, a 48/72hr listing time is still happening.

A $100-200 metal frame is pretty much indestructable and have weight capacities that are 10-20X+ that of the average person. 

i think some of what you said is accurate - prices and rents were previously increasing faster than they are likely to do over the next few years, which had a buoying effect that should no longer be counted on.so yes, the ideal situation is: interest rates are stable or falling, rents are increasing, and your own personal W2 income is increasing. 

Properties with garages or yards may rent faster and retain tenants longerAlways look at the local inventory—are you competing with lots of small apartments, or are rentals with space and amenities more unique?

That shifts the decision from “rate shopping” to “capital redeployment.”Effective Equity Growth Rate:Post-refi, if you’re still paying down principal faster due to a lower rate (even if the term resets), you might calculate how much additional equity you’re building each year compared to before.

A good starting point is connecting with local property managers, wholesalers, and attending REI meetups—they often have insights on off-market 2–16 unit properties.Also, building relationships with cash buyers and local investors in your target neighborhoods can help you find deals faster.

The faster you implement, the faster you see results.