Anyone in Southern Louisiana? Need some help/advice please!

[Olivia Armstrong]

Hey everyone! I'm new to real estate and BP :) My fiance and I just moved to the Covington area as he got stationed in New Orleans with the military. Our goal is to invest in real estate, and build a portfolio which allows us to live/experience life rather than working a 9-5. Our initial plan is to use the VA loan to buy a multifamily, live in one of the units until we move on elsewhere, and rent the rest. We are new to the area (and real estate) and wanted to gain some insight on the good/bad areas to invest in. We are open to Covington, mandeville, hammond, southern baton rogue (just would like to keep our commute under 1.10 or so) That being said, if anyone is familiar with the general southern Louisiana area, we would greatly appreciate the advice. Looking for a family friendly, safe flood zone, stable economic area! Thank you all in advance!