Buying my first rental property

[MarieChele Porter]

Hi All,

It may seem that I've played the common disappearing act but I have been very active! I have been reading books, listening to the BP podcast, and attending my local real estate events. My hardest thing yet has been deciding where to invest. I've pretty much thought I had it narrowed down and then another city or state came in mind. My criteria is however pretty much set. I would like my first investment to be a small MFH 2-4 units with minimal construction needed or a partner that can be boots on the  ground during a rehab. The areas that I have narrowed down to are pretty much anywhere in Texas, Birmingham, Al, Garfield Heights / Cleveland, Ohio, and Chicago, IL. I was considering Sacramento, CA but I don't think there are houses with my criteria in my price range, which max is about 85k-100k. I'm looking for any ideas, advice or comments. Oh I'm also flying to the Houston, Tx and Lake Charles, LA area if anyone is willing meet up and talk about real estate in your area! Thanks everyone!

[Chris T.]

@MarieChele Porter

It's very important to have boots on the ground, especially when you invest out of state. Therefore you need to establish a team. If you've been networking in your local REIA, I would start there and ask for referrals. LEVERAGE your network.

Have you tried looking for areas (within a 2-3 hrs drive from where you live), where the numbers make more sense?