Newvie investor, Bemidji, Minnesota

[Aaron Carter]

Hi there, I am a new real estate investor with a vary broad background. I am 25 years old, married, with our first child on the way. I work full time as a registered nurse. However, as much as I enjoy my job, I have a very ambitious entrepreneurial spirit. This in addition to my strong belief of living within one's means, I hope will propel me to financial freedom.

I have held a real estate license since I was 18 years old, however, I let my license lapse last year because of the tremendous amount of competition in my area and beginning my career as an RN. My mom is a real estate broker, so I am still able to do the leg work and represent myself in transactions.

I have also been a personal trainer for five years as well as managing numerous health clubs in Minnesota. I am one of the most motivated and ambitious people you will ever meet. I strive for excellence in everything I do.

I bought my first piece of raw land when I was 10 years old, one acre on contract for deed, no money down, that I paid for with my paper route; $50 per month out of the $110 that I earned (the owner was very empathetic to my situation). Oh if I only knew then what I know now. Needless to say, it was not the smartest investment as there is little to no income potential.

I bought my first investment property last spring immediately after graduating from college. We purchased a duplex close to the local university that needed a complete remodel. Each unit approximately 850 square feet two bed one bath. I was able to completely the remodel the building with my father-in-law for around $6,000 following graduation and before starting my first job as an RN. Currently have had both units filled since last fall and cash flow well. There is an opportunity to add two more bedrooms to one of the units once I have the capital. As is with most new investors, I have more time than money and will be doing all of the labor myself.

Currently the process of purchasing our first home contingent on financing through USDA rural development.

I am looking forward to learning from this community!