Central/Southern Iowa Real Estate Investing

[Ross Bauer]

Hello

I am new to investing and currently have 1 SFH that I rent out in Creston, Iowa. I am just looking to network and have discussions with other investors in what I call the "small" towns in Iowa. Basically anything south of Highway 92. I like the idea of building my portfolio outside of the Des Moines Metro as I feel they have more restrictions and that the commuter communities are easier to deal with and a growing trend for people to move to. Again just looking to connect with others in my area to build relationships with and discuss investing strategies. Thanks!!

[Ross Bauer]

Thanks for the responses. I appreciate the advice. I in no way will be a slumlord and I see plenty that are. I will only buy units that are nice or I can make nice. I have been involved with home construction for the past 20 years but I got out of it as a career 10 years ago to pursue my "dream" job!! I have known for years real estate was a good source of income and just haven't had the means to jump into it until recently. I have friends/connections in every trade so finding contractors won't be a problem. I also plan on doing the majority of the work myself until I get a good amount of cash saved up to hire it out. Right now I know sweat equity is where I can make the most profit. I live in St Charles which is a 15-20 minute drive to West Des Moines/downtown. Most of what I do for real estate investing will be with in 30 minutes of the Des Moines metro. I have set my perimeter for investing at 1 hour from my house but may close that distance. The houses in my area right now do not have a problem with appreciation as the housing market as of now is crazy. I am wanting to flip the next investment as my wife isn't huge on rentals just yet but she knows the long term benefits. I think a flip would get her involved in the business as she loves designing and is not afraid to work. With my job right now I get 4 days off every 5 days so I have some extra time to get involved in a project. The problem is finding a house in my area that I can afford to buy and rehab. The housing prices do not match up well for a rehab. There are deals out there that I have known will make money and I hesitate for some reason and I watch as others flip them into a profit. Anyhow a long response but kind of a background on me.