New Investor Seeking Guidance: First-Time Steps Before Approaching Realtors

[Zac Hugh Nguyen]

Hello, BiggerPockets community!

I'm thrilled to be part of this amazing community of real estate enthusiasts. I've recently caught the investing bug and I'm eager to take my first step into the world of real estate. However, before I dive in, I want to make sure I'm fully prepared and armed with the right knowledge. So, I'm turning to you experienced investors for some guidance.

I'm curious to know: What are the first 5-10 steps a first-time investor should take before going to a realtor to find his/her first property?

I believe that laying a strong foundation is crucial, and I want to ensure I'm making informed decisions from the very beginning. Any advice on how to educate myself, what research to conduct, financial preparations, getting pre-approved for a loan, or any other initial steps would be greatly appreciated.

Here's a bit about my current situation: I've saved up a decent amount for a down payment, I have a stable job, and I've been reading up on real estate investing. However, I feel a bit overwhelmed with the sheer volume of information out there, and I'm not sure where to start.

I'm particularly interested in long-term investments and potentially exploring rental properties in the future, but I'm open to any profitable venture in the real estate market.

So, seasoned investors, what say you? What steps did you take when you were in my shoes? Any pitfalls to avoid or resources you found particularly helpful? Personal anecdotes and specific strategies are more than welcome! I'm all ears and ready to learn.

Thank you in advance for your valuable insights. I'm looking forward to embarking on this exciting journey with your guidance!

Best regards, 

Zac Nguyen