The fact that some properties don’t have an HOA could be a benefit, no extra fees, but sometimes a well-managed HOA can help maintain property values and curb appeal, which matters for long-term growth.With HOA fees around $600 per year, that’s relatively low and could be worth it if the HOA is active in maintaining common areas and enforcing standards.

Easy Charlotte commute.Outdoor lovers also benefit from Crowders Mountain State Park, Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, and Schiele Museum—all boosting Gaston’s quality of life.Investor TakeawaysHere’s why Gaston County might be your next big win: Affordable buy-in with high appreciation potentialJob and population growth support long-term rental demandInfrastructure improvements like the River District’s transit links will drive value upMill conversions + new construction open doors for creative rentalsSeasonal tourism in McAdenville supports short-term rental opportunitiesWhere to FocusStrategyTarget AreasPre-development & rehabFUSE District, Loray Mill, River District edgesMultifamily & long-term rentalsFranklin Yards, Belmont, River DistrictShort-term rentalsMcAdenville, Crowders Mtn, downtown Belmont​Final ThoughtsGaston County is stepping into the spotlight.

Quote from @Alexander Zeisberg: Quote from @Michael Smythe: Check with RPOA organization Can you expand on what the benefits would be for people to check out this organization or join?

I’m new to investing but eager to get started, and I want to use this benefit strategically—ideally to generate some cash flow and/or build equity.

I find that as you gain experience REIAs offer less benefit.

The fact that you’ve also seen the benefits of rental property firsthand through your father is a huge advantage—you already understand that it's not just about passive income, but about management, long-term thinking, and building wealth steadily.Since you're familiar with analyzing risk and returns from traditional investments, transitioning to real estate can be as analytical as you're used to—cash flow, cap rate, CoCROI, equity growth—all of it maps well to your skill set.

While starting locally does offer hands-on benefits- like being able to check on the property yourself and learning the ropes up close-there's benefits to starting in an out of state market that can offer benefits you may not see in your hometown.

A lot of beginners can benefit from reading this in order to save them money over the long run.I think that many people jump into real estate because of the end result they hope to accomplish & the glamor they see of how great It can be.

A good property manager is also an option if your husband doesn’t want to deal with tenants directly.Bottom line—yes, it takes some learning and adjusting, but the long-term financial benefits can be worth it.

Doesnt have to be two years of work in this particular job, but you need two years total.Second, most school stipend/GI Bill BAH/education benefits cant be used because they are not considered stable and predictable.