At this stage, I’m working on defining the right strategy and would really appreciate insights from those with experience: What type of properties are best to start with for a first flipWhich areas or ZIP codes in Jacksonville and surrounding areas are most suitable for beginnersWhat a realistic purchase price ceiling would be to avoid losses on a first dealFrom a financial standpoint, whether it’s better to use hard money financing or partner with an investor and split profits in order to gain experience and build a track record  I’d love to hear any advice, ideas, or lessons learned from your own experience.Of course, if anyone here is interested in partnering as a capital investor, or has potential opportunities, I’d be happy to connect privately. 

So my questions are: Is it possible to avoid the foreclosure action at the end of the three years period, by continuing paying the taxes?

It’s that the deal was built around financing that was never realistic for the asset.The investors who avoid this don’t wait for underwriting to surprise them.

This can take many forms, but it avoids dealing with traditional lenders, which gives you the ability to control the terms of the deal.3 - Using LLC's and selling LLC's with properties as the LLC;s asset.4 - Using a cash partner that wants to flip to buy/rehab, then exchanging that partner for a different cash parter that want to hold. 

Any tools you swear by or avoid?

Thanks in advance — again, I’m trying to avoid rationalizing bad deals just because I can qualify for high leverage.

If it’s not clear, forcing a 1031 just to avoid writing a tax check can backfire.

My thoughts:- Eviction but self-represent to avoid lawyer fees? 

For a first multifamily, underwriting conservatively (in-place rents, realistic expenses) helps avoid surprises.MLS access is a big advantage, but I’d also talk with listing agents early and identify backups in case a deal falls through.

I was trying to avoid the double close since that's probably going to incur more fees plus the fact that I wouldn't have enough funds in the IRA to cover the first close.