If I were starting today, I’d focus on finding one or two investor-friendly agents, driving the neighborhoods you like, and reaching out to owners directly.

You spoke on a panel about home building, and I asked you a question from the crowd.

I understand my methods are unconventional and maybe a bit slower than most are use to today but I feel they work?

Wife worked, I built and took care of day to day.

If the market is telling you today that you will lose money at market price, it will not get better with time.

Today I run the largest most engaged group of Philly landlords and Ive assisted  remote investors who fell into some bad deals because they were not fully aware of the potential pitfalls.

For example, I could send tenant notice today that her lease will not be renewed and will terminate. 

In today’s housing market, with many people locked into 3% loans, this will make tapping into one’s home equity virtually impossible.

This is roughly the starting point for most mortgages today.

You’re already on the right track by weighing both the buy-and-hold and BRRRR-style strategies.Let’s break this down a bit:Option 1: Buy 2–3 Positive Cash Flowing RentalsPros:Immediate, stable incomeLower risk and lower stress (especially if you're new)You lock in today’s interest rates and start building equity + appreciationCons:Your capital is tied up after the purchases (unless you buy below market value)Scaling becomes slower unless you have more capital coming in or look to HELOCs/partnershipsThis is a great path for investors who want consistent returns, less construction risk, and strong property management in place.