A lot of people get into real estate investing for the tax benefits, but they don’t always realize it can take real work and actually cost you money, if it’s not managed properly or if life events derail the plan.

Podcasts like BP and books like Rich Dad Poor Dad and The Millionaire Real Estate Investor are great starters, but pairing education with action is where it really clicks. 

This preparation, paired with a strategic financier, is crucial, as they can save you tens of thousands by securing competitive financing and positioning you for the lowest possible risk.

Mold concerns can quickly turn into costly repairs and legal issues if not handled properly.

My name is Tes and I'm looking for some advice or guidance on how to properly structure a gift of equity for two homes I'm purchasing directly from my parents.Here are a few details:- There are two properties -- one in Raleigh, NC and the other in Jacksonville, NC.- Both homes are currently owned by my parents and I'll be purchasing directly from them.- 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!

Quote from @Adam Wachter: Quote from @Rohullah Sharifi: Short-term rental (STR) activities require active participation and proper documentation to substantiate your involvement.

Here’s the play:Price: set a walk‑away number, then use an escalation with a cap tied to comps and in‑place rents; pair it with an appraisal‑gap limited to what you can comfortably cover.Terms: bigger EMD, short inspection period not waived, but prebook inspector and key specialists; ask for seller disclosures up front and use inspection to negotiate only for health/safety or structural.Lender: include DU/LP or pre‑underwrite letter, fund your reserves, and show shorter close with an ordered appraisal slot.Search: add adjacent submarkets with similar tenant bases where days‑on‑market are a touch longer; have your agent call the listing agent before writing to learn hot buttons and tailor.

Pairing smart structuring with a growing market—like Columbus, Ohio, where there’s strong job growth, population growth, and appreciation potential—can really amplify your long-term wealth plan.

Obviously the cash flow following an ADU conversion is much better, but I would only take that step if you are zoned properly and have the funds.I do rent 3 storage units online, and they have been doing great over the last 5 years.

Some areas define it as anything under 30 days; others under 90.Midterm rentals often bypass short-term rental restrictions — but you still need:-Proper lease agreements-Local registration (in some cases)-Business insuranceIf you’re operating in gray areas, tighten up your paperwork.Anyone’s city recently updated their MTR regulations?