To take the next step, start by defining your investment goals (cash flow, appreciation, or both) and building local connections with agents and investors who know the market dynamics.

I’m curious about something I’ve seen come up repeatedly, and I’d love to get insight from those of you who currently own or are considering buying in this market (or similar Midwest markets).What is the biggest challenge you’ve experienced or you expect to experience when managing rentals in Cleveland from out of state?

I think the biggest challenge for me and my team at the moment is managing & maintaining growth.

The market’s shifting and funding terms have changed a lot.What’s been your biggest challenge recently—finding capital, closing timelines, or lender requirements?

I’ve seen opportunity here, but it also comes with challenges that don’t always show up in the numbers.

Between rising costs, timelines, and funding delays, fix & flip projects can get tricky.What’s been your biggest challenge lately — finding deals, contractors, or capital?

Good read with practical steps. 

I’m an engineer by trade, live in California so I know that will be a challenge.

Ask them:What credit score, debt-to-income, and reserves they like to see for house hacks or multi-family loans.What first-time buyer or local programs exist in your target area.How they treat projected rental income when calculating eligibility.That info gives you a clear goalpost — you’ll know exactly what to fix or build before next year.In the meantime, here is my advice and some actionable steps you can start on now:Pick a target market and study rents, prices, and zoning.

You just need the right setup.Here’s my 3-step formula I teach my coaching clients:-Target the right audience — check for hospitals, engineering firms, or universities nearby.