First Look Fannie Mae Program and Learning Market

[Noah Norton]

Hey, I have a few questions. Long story short, I am moving to Bradenton (FL) in one year, for college. My plan, when I turn 18, is to use a 203k fha loan and buy a 4-plex, live in one unit, rent the others out, etc. Before I move, I am trying to learn as much as possible about real estate, and one important thing is knowing your market.

The Fannie Mae Homepath "First Look Program" seems like one of the best ways to get my first rental with a 203k loan, but this leaves me with a problem. The first look program is unlikely to have a huge selection of good properties, especially in Bradenton.

So should I still focus on learning the Bradenton market, if I might end up having to buy a property 1+ hours away from Bradenton because it is the only good deal in the first look homepath program?

Thanks, sorry if this question is confusing, I had a lot of words and didn't want to make this post long.