There are a few things that you have to pay attention to that occur simultaneously, but using realistic numbers are critical. 1.

A few I’ve seen work well:Targeted Google & Facebook Ads – cheaper once you know your audience.Local SEO & Google Maps optimization – people are searching “storage near me.”Referral programs – reward current renters or local businesses for leads.Dynamic pricing tools – inspired by Airbnb/STRs to optimize rates.Seems like consolidators are great for quick growth, but once you hit critical occupancy, going organic + tech is where the real margin shows.Curious if anyone is using dynamic pricing or online booking tools outside of Sparefoot?

This is a critical discussion.

So, yeah, it's crucial to nurture these connections and make them mutually beneficial.In the world of real estate investment, financing is a critical piece of the puzzle.

Like Aaron mentioned, saving more and keeping strong reserves is critical early on.

At the same time, inflation pressures remain stubborn, with both the Import Price Index and Export Price Index printing hotter than forecast—underscoring that global price pressures have yet to fully cool.Attention now shifts to the remainder of the week, with tomorrow’s January employment report setting the tone for risk markets and rates, followed by Core CPI on Friday, which will be the most critical input for near-term Fed expectations.

It hurts.I think it is critical for passive investors to realize they could lose 90% of their investment.I was not aware of this fact.

This is critical to do early on, especially if you want to scale to multiple flips/rental purchases per year.

Here is something critical, look at how long the HOA can take to approve or reject any proposed changes.   90 days is not uncommon.  

Danielle,You’re asking the right questions — long-distance investing is very doable, but the team and the financing structure matter a lot.A few things I’ve seen work well for out-of-state investors:• Local boots on the ground are critical — a strong agent and property manager who know block-by-block differences matter more than the city label (especially in markets like Charlotte).• Conservative underwriting — plan for rehab overruns and slower timelines when you’re not local.• Clear exit strategy upfront — whether this is a flip or a long-term hold/refi, that decision should be made before you go under contract.From a lending perspective, having liquidity like you described ($200k for down payment, reserves, light rehab) puts you in a good position.