Quote from @Bob E.: Cleveland is an OK market but we have had better luck in other markets.  

That’s awesome you’re branching into STRs — especially with your background in commercial development, you’re already way ahead in understanding the fundamentals.

That said, I believe the fundamentals of real estate still make it one of the best paths to long-term wealth, and I'm ready to learn and take action.What I’m Looking For:Advice on how to get started in a high-cost or competitive market like NashvilleThoughts on starting locally vs. going out of stateHow to evaluate markets that are good for cash flowTips on building a remote team if I go out of state (property managers, contractors, agents, etc.)Insight on financing strategies for first-time investors (e.g., conventional vs. portfolio loans, house hacking, etc.)Common mistakes to avoid on your first dealIf I go the out-of-state route, I’m aware that it can be riskier for a first-timer, but I’m open to it if it means I can find a better deal.

BIG ask, requesting California broker info to put on renewal for my r/e sales license.  

BIG ask, request California broker info to put on renewal for my r/e sales license.

The market has strong fundamentals: population and job growth, big companies like Intel, Google, Amazon moving in, and you can still find properties in the $120–180K range that cash flow and hit the 1% rule.

What the wholesaler earns should not be their concern.This mindset of counting money in someone else’s pocket is not only misguided, but also a fundamentally unfair and counterproductive approach to doing business.

Quote from @Randall E Collins: Only an idiot has payed or plans to pay some one how to teach them how to wholesale.

Tax treatment is the same—you’ll report income and expenses on Schedule E and can still utilize cost segregation and bonus depreciation if eligible.15- or 20-Year Loans: Lower interest, faster equity buildup, but higher monthly payments reduce cash flow.

Use IRS Schedule E for tax filing.