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[Griffin Ashey]

My name is Griffin Ashey and am currently a 20 year old college student in Massachusetts, however I was born and raised in Southern Maine.  Right now I am working on graduating college and getting into investing but I would like some ideas on steps I should take from the position I am currently in; here are the details:

1. I have been "lurking" on this sight for a couple years now reading forums and listening to podcasts and different videos members have suggested on this site.  I would consider myself educated on real estate but I understand I should never stop learning.

2. I have had a mentor for a few years now that specializes investing in section 8 housing however that isn't primarily where I want to go.

3. I have a possible private lender lined up however as a fallback I have been exploring different financing options I could afford as a young adult straight out of college.

4. I have a current partner that is a licensed contractor and plumber however has no real education in real estate.  He is also going to be splitting the costs that come with investing.

5. I understand that investing in areas you are familiar with is usually the safer route to go however living in Portland Maine has restricted me to high housing costs which limit the amount of properties I could finance because of my financial situation (college student).

I have talked to 4 professors at my school who have some real estate background and they suggested a couple markets in Mass that would provide lower housing costs and the same amount of renting possibility.  The most common answer I received is Worcester.  My real questions regard the market I should be looking for and what kind of properties (live in, multi-unit, sfh ect.) I should be seeking out.  Any input in general regarding my situation would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you in advance!