Hello from CA, lots of questions!

[Dani B.]

Hi BP!

I've been listening to some Bigger Pockets podcasts and love the idea of an online community for everyone to share their ideas.  I'm new to investing, but am aiming to educate myself through this great resource.

I currently live in the Bay Area (northern CA) and plan to relocate to southern CA within a year or so.  While I would love to invest in CA, it seems it won't be worth the cost.  I've heard Indianapolis is a good market, but not sure of any others.

Any suggestions for finding great markets for investments?  Any tips for getting started (aside from sifting through the forum and listening to the podcast)?

Thanks all,

Dani

[Elizabeth Colegrove]

Welcome to Biggerpockets!

I invest in California and LOVE it. Now I invest in central valley and my returns don't meet the 1%, 2% or 50% rule but I am able to buy class A properties that appeal to professionals for @160-235k. They have no vacancy, are appreciating, low maintenance tenants. Our taxes are 1.3% and our insurance is .35 compared to our houses in Charleston combined 4.3%. While there are downsides, investing out here is actually really great. It all depends on your needs and desires

Don't forget to check out the blogs and podcasts. Participating in the forum is a great way to network, learn and give back. Another GREAT resource is everyone's signature. MANY of us, including myself have put together a blog/website about our niche, strategy and business model. Think of them as "free" books. These are GREAT free resources too!

Look forward to seeing you around! Please feel free to pm me if I can help!