Starting in college town rentals? Or is there a better option?

[Ragan Street]

I'm 18 years old headed to college in a few months and I'm ready to start real estate investing. I am thinking about college town rentals around the college I will be at for the next 4 years. I have $15,000 saved up for investing but I do not have enough credit to get a mortgage on a property. I have a mentor who may be interested in investing with me. 

What would you do if you were in my position?

Should I use an investor and try to get a rental?

[Ben Thomas]

I would recommend waiting at least a year to invest in the market. I am also a college student and it takes some time to gauge your market in terms of the demand, average rents, and finding the right area to invest. My college is growing at a ridiculous rate which has created a shortage in student housing and consequently has make rents go up. My recommendation would be to gauge the market over your freshman year then potentially purchase a property that you could live in while renting out rooms to friends that you meet over the course of that year. Also speak with local RE companies to see if you can get hands on experience with them and learn from individuals who know the market well. Best of luck in your investing!