Welcome to the group.As you embark on building and expanding your real estate portfolio, one of the most important steps you can take is establishing a strong, proactive asset protection strategy.Real estate investing offers great potential, but it also carries inherent risks, from lawsuits and liability claims to unforeseen creditor issues.

So your other move would be to close with the tenant still there and negotiate a credit or small price drop to cover the time you can’t move in.

Also important to clarify, if borrower fails to make payments creditors can still report to credit reporting agencies.

lack of cash, high rates, credit, or finding the right lender?

Many successful flippers start with individual loans, then transition to a line of credit or capital partner once they have a few successful projects under their belt.Curious to hear how others here are structuring theirs — lines of credit, private money, or mix-and-match?

You could also leverage a home equity line of credit or cash-out refinance on your current home to fund the renovations separately, letting you close on the new property quickly.

Regardless of the service you choose, remember to always follow these steps to stay compliant with the law:     - Obtain written consent: You must get a prospective tenant's written permission before running a credit or background check

Winter definitely slows things down in many markets, especially in colder regions.A few strategies that have worked for me during the off-season include:Offering slightly reduced rent for longer lease terms (like 15 or 18 months) to avoid winter lease ends in the futureProviding flexible move-in dates or short-term leases that end in spring or summerIncluding small move-in perks like a rent credit or gift card to boost interest without reducing rent across the boardIncreasing marketing efforts and refreshing listings on listing platforms more frequently to stay visibleIt’s all about staying proactive and making your units stand out.

You might also negotiate a seller credit or delayed closing to free up equity from your current sale.

If you find one, you can add the cost into rent or collect it as a flat monthly fee.Create a small, secure trash area - A fenced or enclosed spot near the top of the driveway can make things easier for tenants or haulers to manage.Consider small incentives for upkeep - I’ve seen owners give a small annual rent credit or gift card for tenants who consistently keep the exterior clean and manage trash properly.