I would really look to online lead sources and mailing, those are really going to move the needle. 

Your spreadsheet is gold; track multiple markets if you can and be ready to move when a deal matches your criteria.Patience and persistence are key—your first deal will teach you more than any book or video.

When I started my journey, I actually moved from Portland to Columbus, Ohio in 2020 and have since built a portfolio of 10+ rentals here.

That’s exactly why I ended up in Columbus, Ohio after moving from Portland in 2020.

Not dropping all details here, but if someone has a project in this bracket and wants to see how I can position it to move at full ask with zero bottlenecks, I’m happy to compare notes privately.

One thing that’s helped me is writing out clear criteria for what the “next move” has to look like before I pull the trigger, whether that’s a certain cash-on-cash return, a business that doesn’t eat up more than X hours a week, or properties that hit a minimum rent-to-value ratio.

Once you embed it into your process — whether that’s building lists, analyzing comps, or drafting outreach — it starts to feel less like a novelty and more like an extra team member.Curious, are you experimenting with one platform right now or testing multiple side by side?"

Getting comfortable with out-of-state deals:It all starts with building a trustworthy team in your target market.

We have a team of 6 techs and relationships with lots of contractors.

With an influx of STR investor demand and a shrinking 2025 STR Participation window - its vital investors align or establish a qualified team to execute.