When comparing markets, most investors focus on a few core metrics: rent-to-price ratio (aim for 0.8–1%+), job/population growth, landlord-friendly laws, and overall affordability.Texas and North Carolina tend to offer strong growth and relatively landlord-friendly regulations.

., plumbing, painting, appliance replacement).🪜 Depreciation – A major benefit allowing you to deduct the property’s wear and tear over time.💡 Utilities – If you pay for water, gas, or electricity, those are deductible.🧹 Cleaning & Landscaping Services – Routine upkeep expenses.💼 Professional Fees – Legal, accounting, or property management services.🧑‍🔧 Contractor Labor & Supplies – Any materials or hired help for property improvements.🚗 Mileage/Travel – When traveling to inspect or manage rental properties (keep mileage logs).💻 Office Supplies & Software – Including bookkeeping tools, printers, and even part of your home office.Creative Ways to Give Back — and Still SaveGiving back can also be tax-deductible when done thoughtfully:🎁 Tenant Appreciation Gifts: Small gifts such as gift cards, snacks, or holiday baskets (under $25 per tenant per IRS rules) can be deductible as a business expense.🏘️ Community Donations: Contributing to local charities, shelters, or community events near your property may be tax-deductible if donated to a registered nonprofit (501(c)(3)).🧤 Property Improvement Drives: Donating old appliances, furniture, or materials from renovations to nonprofit organizations like Habitat for Humanity can qualify as a charitable deduction.Pro Tip:Before December 31st, review your receipts, invoices, and bank statements.

Less burdensome regulations than STRs. for #3, I would not discount the lease if possible.

This may not be what you want to hear, but you are way better off buying a property that has had systems (HVAC, electric, plumbing) updated already.

Even if rates fall, it will still be very hard for many working class Americans to afford homes. 70 years ago there was less permitting required, less litigation risk/builder insurance required and way less labor regulations resulting in cheaper builds. 

I provide my clients with a vendor list for HVAC, plumbing etc if my handyman can't handle it.  

The facility let us change out the tub/shower to a walk-in shower as long as we paid to have it done (we're plumbing contractors so that was easy).

Look at the age and condition of the roof, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, water heater, windows, and major appliances.

Is there plumbing for a docker's bathroom and shower?

It's one of myriad reasons the city is less prosperous than the surrounding county with a libertarian mayor (Glenn Jacobs - Kane of WWE fame) who is much more laissez faire with housing regulations than the increasingly protectionist city government - but on the other hand there aren't many hotels and speakeasy bars outside of downtown!