New STR Investor in Tampa

[Cole Britting]

I hope everyone is having a good start to the new year! I just graduated college (Econ and Math degree) and am looking to get my start in real estate investing. I have been listening to BP for about 2 years now, did an internship doing acquisitions in multifamily, and am finally ready to take action! 

I have decided I want to start investing long distance doing short term rentals in Tampa. I'm looking for properties that need a rehab, but not a full gut one as this will be my first time managing a rehab and contractors. Right now I am thinking I would like to find a 2-3 BR property within a 15 minute drive to Busch Gardens (which by proximity will also be close to USF), and I'm hoping to buy a house at around $200k-$250k (financed) along with $50k or less on a rehab. I'd also be open to a small multifamily property.

To my Tampa investors, is my criteria reasonable? I've also heard that some areas around USF may not be that safe. Are there any neighborhoods I should be avoiding or any that you think would be particularly good for STR? Should I look in other parts of Tampa? I would love to connect with any investors, agents, contractors, etc in the Tampa area! I'm also open to lending a hand to people (from a distance since I am located in NH) that want some help in their business.

[Kristina Kuba]

I would also entertain VM Ybor and that area as it pushes east.  Closer to downtown, less than 10 mins away to Midtown, Sparkman Wharf, Bucs & Lightning stadiums... this is where your short term rental guests are going to want to visit.

Closer to Busch Gardens is on the up and up and deals can be found but be aware that the county line is around there and as soon as you leave Tampa proper and into Hillsborough county you have a different sent of governing short term laws.