New to the Game

[Michael O'Byrne]

Hi All,

My wife and I have decided to take the full plunge into real estate investing. After almost 19 years in a challenging and satisfying corporate career, it's time for something new. There are several drivers behind our decision, but suffice it to say that we are highly excited at the prospect of building something together, getting more into our local community, and meeting some great people along the way.

There is a LOT to learn and we know next to nothing at this point, but Bigger Pockets has been an amazing resource in the research we have done so far. Thanks to all who are making this happen and all the contributors.

We live in the Houston TX area, and there are a lot of options and opportunities here, with a growing economy and a bright future in real estate, albeit challenging. We want to start out with residential flips as a way to learn the ropes, generate cash flow and open more opportunities down the road. Our initial plan is to flip pretty aggressively, at a rate of one deal per month within six months from now.

Our first priority is networking. We need help and good relationships, especially local ones. We are inexperienced and don't know what we don't know, but we are willing to learn and take our lumps, and are highly appreciative of any advice and counsel.

We have been checking out the real estate investment clubs in Houston, and there are several. Would any Houstonians out there give us recommendations on which ones would be the most suitable for us noobs to get involved with? We have way too many questions to post here, but we obviously need a good market strategy to find deals, figure out the cash or financing options, meet some contractors, build realtor networks, etc.

Thanks for all responses, and for this great resource to draw from!