Something strange is happening in the markets. The Fed is preparing to cut rates, yet long-term Treasury yields are spiking to levels we haven’t seen since 2008. That disconnect is leaving investors confused, especially those who expect mortgage rates to fall in lockstep with Fed policy. The truth is, mortgages follow Treasury yields, and those are rising as the U.S. piles on more debt. In this environment of volatility and mistrust, real estate stands out as a tangible, income-producing asset that also hedges against inflation. With major institutions calling 2025 a generational buying opportunity, it’s worth asking: is now the time to make real estate your safe harbor?

Most real estate investors start with one property—but what happens after that? In this week’s post, I dive into what I’ve learned from managing properties across Texas, Missouri, and Tennessee about the right number of doors to own. From reducing risk and maximizing cash flow to unlocking tax benefits and negotiating better property management fees, scaling your portfolio isn’t just about more—it’s about smarter. I also share how I think about real estate as a percentage of total assets, and what experts recommend. If you’re thinking about property #2 (or #5), don’t miss this one.