Schenectady, NY First Steps

[Jacob Benninger]

Hello Everyone,

Over the last few months, I have been working on finishing up college, securing a full-time job and saving up a down payment for a small multifamily apartment. I am now ready to take the next steps and actually start looking for properties. I just don't know where to start.

I have listened to countless podcasts and read several books on real estate, but they all contain a lot of theory and not much practical advice. My goal is to purchase a property within the next 8-10 months using traditional financing. 

Where do I go from here? What resources are helpful in looking for properties? Should I go and start talking with local banks about getting a loan? How do I learn about the characteristics and numbers of an area like Schenectady? 

I am very motivated and excited about buying my first building, I just don't have anyone to ask about the process of buying. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.