Medical Professional, REI Newbie seeking PA market advice, REI advice, networking...

[Tamara Jones]

Hi Bigger Pockets!

I am a medical professional (anesthesia provider) looking to break into REI! I am originally from NY, but have been living in MA for about 3 years. I have been obsessively consuming REI content for the past month and took the plunge to create an account on BP!

I am interested (but not closed minded) in Multifamily rental properties (maybe single family), MTR/LTR, 7-10% Cap rate (or close to this), B (maybe C neighborhoods), Duplex/Triplex/Fourplex, Purchase & Hold, in the Pittsburg, PA area (or PA in general if growing). I have searched the market in the Boston, MA and surrounding areas, but haven't found anything meeting my criteria. I chose the PA market since it is still close enough for me (to visit frequently if i have to) and have a close hand on it (I am definitely looking into a PM though). However, all advice is welcomed! 

At this point I am networking (meetups) and doing my research in my prospective market(s) as well as financing options (FHA, DSCR, conventional, etc). I do not currently own any property and am not averse to house hacking a duplex (if the numbers are right) or a triplex in MA. I do still have student loans (will this hurt me during this journey?), NO credit card debt, very good credit score.

Again, any and ALL advice from single family/Multifamily homes, Financing options (creative financing), PA areas that are "up & coming", ways to break into the MA market, etc -- anything is GREATLY welcomed, since this is new to me. Or even if any newbies like me, or more educated individuals would like to meet!

Thanks for reading my TedTalk!