My realtor does quite many deals that has built-in equity, which is why I’d love to get some experienced perspectives on a capital-efficiency question.Some background and numbers:⁍ Target purchase price: <$200k SFH⁍ Strategy: long-term buy & hold⁍ I’m investing out of state and using a property manager⁍ My current savings rate allows me to comfortably buy ~1 property per year using traditional 20% down. 

😮‍💨 Woodlawn and Pilsen are strong rental markets — so the real deciding factor is going to be your numbers and your strategy.One thing to consider is that with newer construction, you’ll typically see lower insurance costs, fewer maintenance issues, and far fewer future headaches.

One thing that changed everything for me: treating lead follow-up like a factory line.

Early on: I read, ran the numbers, drove out to see the house myself, saved for the down payment, bought it, and rented it out.Over time, I’ve followed the same basic approach — just more efficiently.

For this reason I recommend doing group showings for efficiency.

Another important factor is agent compensation.

I really like his desire to be as efficient as possible owning as few rentals as necessary.  

You can technically do the cost segregation study in 2026, but the key factor is when you claim the bonus depreciation.

I am now fully compliant and trying to determine the most efficient way to resolve this pre-trial.I’ve spoken with a few attorneys and received quotes ranging from $3k to $6k, and I’m trying to evaluate:- Whether retaining counsel specifically for the pre-trial conference is worth it at this stage, and- Whether anyone has recommendations for attorneys experienced with municipal / STR / code enforcement cases in Williams, Flagstaff, or northern Arizona.If you’ve been through something similar, I’d appreciate hearing:- How your case resolved once compliance was achieved- Whether having an attorney at pre-trial made a meaningful difference- Any lawyer recommendations (or lessons learned)Thanks in advance — appreciate the collective wisdom here.

The Tax Efficiency AdvantageFor many investors, the "hidden" cost of the stock market is the capital gains tax.