$20k Cash Ready to Invest. Now What?

[Alex Mendoza]

Hello BiggerPockets! I’m trying to get started with my first deal. Right now, I have $20k in cash and ready to get started. I’m writing this with a little frustration and slightly demotivated ... but it NO WAY am I stopping!! I’m just ready to get started and want to put that $20k to work.

I've been looking for my first SFH deal (to hold for a rental) in Texas (north of Dallas). I've tried different strategies - driven around, searched MLS (I'm actually working on RE License now), looked at inventory from a few local wholesalers, and mention my interest to invest to a few people I've met. But that 1st deal is still beyond my grasp.

Is $20k just not enough to get started? I’ve analyzed many deals using the Rental Calculator, and they would cash flow, but those deals are snatched up quickly (assuming all-cash buyers). I’m afraid that it will take me a considerable amount of time to come up with enough capital for all-cash deals ... but if that’s what it takes, I’ll keep the course and wait a little bit longer.