Newbie from San Diego, California

[Katy C.]

Hi Everyone,

I work full-time as a project manager (my actual titles are lengthy and numerous) for an international company doing testing, inspections, and certifications. I love what I do and the company I work for, so I'm not hoping to replace my full-time job with real estate investing. At least not in the next 5 years. I do love a steady paycheck ;)

My real estate experience is limited. I own a single family home in Gilbert, AZ, which I lived in for 4 years before making it a rental property last month when I moved back to my hometown, San Diego. Short-term (< 2 years), I'm interested in building my portfolio to include two 2-4 unit properties in the right market. I'm not confident that San Diego is the market for me, given limited capital and the cost of ownership versus attainable rent in this area. That means I'm looking at non-local acquisitions, so I welcome any advice on that topic.

I have spent several hours on this site today, and I'm excited to meet others who are just starting out as well as those who have already experienced success (and failure... even better if you're willing to share those experiences).

Thanks for reading!

[William Robison]

@Gordon Cuffe

Agree and respectfully disagree with you.

I agree that investors should work with Realtors that have good experience in understanding investment real estate. It is paramount to find someone that understands all aspects of the real estate investment cycle regarding the strategy that the investor expects to deploy.

However, I disagree with you regarding the agent that also owns houses. Ive been in this business for 11 years, started flipping, then realized that the hunt and other aspects were more interesting for me personally. One of my selling points today is the fact that I do not own rentals. I specifically point out to clients that I do not "buy the best and sell the rest" in terms of good deals. I want to be able to offer my best finds to my valued clients. Having the years of experience is what prepares me for the job. My "skin in the game" is client service. Happy investors refer.

Regarding your investments in Kansas City...I obviously couldn't agree more. Its a good buy and hold market.

All the best with your investments.