Getting started in Kansas City

[Derrick Carpenter]

Hello - My name is Derrick Carpenter and I am just getting serious about real estate investing. I started as a accidental landlord in Bentonville, AR, when I moved for a job. 3 years later, I still have the house rented to the same people and it finally dawned on me that this is a pretty good deal. So, recently I have spent a lot of time on BiggerPockets building out a strategy and plan to acquire more property in the Kansas City metro area where I now live.

I am interested in buying single family homes ( 3br - 2bath) and renting them for the long term. I recently put my 2nd home under contract and am set to close on 6/23, so I am jumping in with both fee.

I work a full time job in Electronic Payments industry and have a wife and 3 great kids. I love spending time with my family and Kansas basketball. ROCK CHALK JAYHAWK!

I am looking for any advice around how to grow a portfolio in a very thoughtful and methodical way. I am looking to put together a portfolio over the next 10 years that produces good income and allows me to pursue real estate or other business opportunities and leave the corporate world at the age of 45.

My biggest concerns are regarding using debt to grow the business. I am very conservative with regards to debt, but as I read more on the site, I am becoming more comfortable.

Great site, great to be here. Thanks and hope to see you around

Derrick