First Deal: Move in Ready or Distressed

[Anthony Fiorini]

Hey BP! I wanted to put my thoughts to paper and hear what y'all think. So here is my situation. I currently live in an apartment in Lakewood, Ohio (renting) and I am looking to purchase my first property within the next 6 months or so. I have a full time job and work part-time as a real estate agent. My goal is to purchase a duplex in Lakewood and live in one side and rent out the other. I am 24 and don't have the resources to undertake a distressed property. I understand I am eliminating a lot of potential great deals. But as a young investor looking to make my first purchase, is it too risky to purchase more of a turnkey property? I am totally fine with fixing basic cosmetic issues myself (paint, carpet) but I wouldn't want to get into a situation where I would need to put 50k into a property. I am willing to take risk but needs to be calculated risk so I don't drown in my first deal. Looking forward to hearing everyone's thoughts!