Newbie Investor needing advice and guidance

[Robert M.]

Hello, my name is Robert and I’m a 46 years old husband and father to two children (both under 5). I’m originally from NYC and I’m currently working overseas for nearly 10 years as a Construction Manager and have been enjoying my time here as well as my family (and the tax benefits too!!). My current salary supports my family comfortably (given that we live well below our means).

It currently seems I’m not going to be coming back to the states anytime soon (given the upcoming projects within the next 3-4 years) but would really appreciate any advice on investment rental property strategy as so to start building the foundation for generational wealth/passive income.

We have saved a substantial amount of money  for which the original intent was to buy our future primary residence with all cash if/when we moved back to the states.

However, that’s not what’s going to build generational wealth and would rather put that money into passive income investments hence, real estate rental properties. We do have our retirement accounts, brokerage accounts, HSA accounts, etc… and will continue to invest money into those respective accounts for retirement purposes.

With above stated, I would appreciate if  anyone can give me an honest opinion on how to start my journey as in what would be the best operation plan/strategy given my current situation and assumed future plans before partaking.

Thanks in advance for anyone replying and assisting in the matter.

[Jonathan Greene]

Welcome, Robert. While you are still out of the country, personally I would not invest in anything here in the US that needs active management. It's a good idea to start doing the research and planning, but adding stateside management now might just become something where you find it hard to manage the manager. Syndications and funds are a great, truly passive real estate investments that can marinate while you are still over there.

I wonder if you've thought about investing where you are now and using real estate as a bridge to potential dual citizenship there. Just another thought.