Beginner in Need of Market Insight &/or Buying Advice.

[Chauncey Glenn]

Hello everyone!

My name is Chauncey Glenn, I am new here to the bigger pockets forum and would like to intoduce myself. 

About Me:

I’m a NYC native, currently living/working in South Korea. I am 26 years old and from Brooklyn, N.Y.

My Goal:

In 18 to 24 months —upon returning to the states— I will be buying my first rental property. I will have saved 15 to 20K (cash reserve) by this time. I would like to purchase a cash flowing duplex so that I may ‘house hack,’ as I do need a place to live upon my return. Ideally, I’d like a cash flow of $500-1K per month.

Markets that interest me:

1. Atlanta, G.A.

2. Buffalo, N.Y. 

3. Houston, T.X.

4. Dallas, T.X.  

These markets have either satisfied my lifestyle needs, met my budget (150-300K) or are potential areas in which I will persue a MBA degree.   

Questions For You:

1. Does this sound reasonable? 

2. Are there other things that I should be considering?

3. Is my budget for a duplex ($150-300K) realistic?

4. Does anyone have experience with duplexes in either of these areas?

5. Has anyone served as a landlord while studying?  

Any and all advice or insight will be greatly appreciated. 

Thanks!