First Deal Done - How to leverage it for the next deal?

[Austin Fox]

Hello BP,

I have closed on my first property and would like to thank you all for the wise words of wisdom this community provides. My question is how can I leverage myself to use this deal for future deals. Now before you continue reading I will add a bit of background below so you can understand why I selected a townhouse or you can scroll down to the deal/pictures.

Background

I am 25, an architect and located in South Florida. I moved out went to college, moved back home with parents and started saving money.The market here is....unique.It's very hard to find a duplex to house hack in an area where your car wont get stolen. I was originally looking for duplexes to house hack. Almost closed on a nice looking duplex(literally 2 weeks from closing) until the plumbing and structural inspections killed the deal. Everything on the outside looked good and yeah I learned its not always what it seems. My goal is to be financially free by 30 and I wish to use this investment as a foundation for the following deals.

The Deal

2 Bedroom 2.5 Bath Townhouse in A GREAT NEIGHBORHOOD(Like for real, they're opening a Starbucks down the corner and a town center development is in the works with restaurants/bars/stores)

Purchase: 225k Bought with FHA 3.5% down.

Interest 4.15%

HOA: $240

Total Cost: 12k including closing costs

Monthly Payment including EVERYTHING: $1649, roommate moving in will pay 750/mo

*To some this may seem incredibly high or some may say its very cheap, again I am located in South Florida Fort Lauderdale so please keep that in mind*

Rehab: I have 15k leftover for remodeling. I plan to replace flooring, repaint and possibly new kitchen. See picture below

The Question

This is my first investment and I would like for it to be the foundation for my following deals. For those who have started and gone down the path, what advice do you have a for a young investor like me looking to eventually reach financial freedom. Thank you.