New member in the DC Area

[Justin Strait]

Good evening BiggerPockets community!

I have made the jump into my journey into real estate investing and a stream of passive income. I've been watching many of the BiggerPockets member videos and now I'm looking to create my and fund my LLC while I look for that first property to invest. I've already started setting up my HELOC so I can pull that trigger when ready.

I took the advice I've seen here and joined a local REI group but the first meetup I went to seemed like it was just a pitch for Renatus REI Education system. I was a little disappointed but I'm not going to let it hold me back and keep focus on my learning here. If there is a recommended REI community group in the DC area I'm definitely interested. Or if someone has feedback on the Renatus system I'd still listen.

My goals are to build my REI portfolio in markets that are in the smaller cost areas (definitely not DC). I'm exploring RoofStock while I still work full time.

I'm working on a checklist of things I should do LLC wise. #1 is writing a draft business plan to put my goals and plans down on paper. Even if I don't use it for loans.

My next education step is looking at the best way to set to operate my LLC once set up and how to analyze cash deals vs mortgage deals.

Looking forward to reading more about REI!