Quote from @Matthew Irish-Jones: @Drew Sygit do you see similar patterns in Detroit? 

Could someone please explain why there's such a consistent pattern on the sale price? 

Different property types have drastically different guest expectations, maintenance needs, and booking patterns.

The real work shifts from toilets to paperwork: verify collateral value conservatively, scrub the chain of title and assignments, confirm enforceability, and study the payor’s pattern, not just their score.

Sellers received 90.9% of their list price in Austin, down from 92% last year, while metro sellers averaged 91.6%, compared to 92.8% in 2024.Overall, the September data indicates continued balance across the Austin-area housing market, with gradual changes in pricing, listing activity, and time on market consistent with seasonal patterns typically seen as activity tapers in the fall and inventory levels adjust ahead of the year’s end.The Austin Business Journal recently highlighted the metro’s continued economic strength, noting that the unemployment rate rose slightly to 3.9% in August but remains well below both the Texas (4.7%) and U.S. (4.5%) rates.

That pattern of activity aligns squarely with the definition of a Ponzi scheme.If you disagree with the characterization, you are free to provide clarification or supporting information.

The key is understanding not just how to buy them, but how they fit into your long-term plan (flips, rentals, or BRRRR).A few tips from what I’ve seen work for investors I advise:- Build relationships with your county offices: Tax deed lists and foreclosure auctions are public info, but showing up regularly helps you spot patterns and deals others miss.- Get clear on your rehab numbers early: Many new investors think the property will be worth more than it actually is after fixing it up (the ARV) or forget to factor in how much it costs to hold the property while it’s being renovated.- Know your tax position before you buy: Depending on your income type and how you structure the deal (LLC, partnership, etc.), you could be losing deductions or missing out on ways to offset rehab costs.If you’re not already working with a CPA who understands real estate strategy, that’s one of the biggest early advantages you can give yourself.

Always good to compare notes with someone seeing the same data patterns.

As you look for your first investment, consider starting with a property type that aligns with your skill set, like a value-add single-family or small multifamily project in your area.The Lake of the Ozarks has unique opportunities, especially if you focus on demand patterns between seasonal and year-round renters.

Are there any unique seasonality patterns or hidden that new owners tend to underestimate?