Newbie from DFW (Fort Worth area)

[Jacob D.]

Hi All,

I've done some reading up on the BP forums and thought it was time to finally introduce myself. I'm Jacob, mid-20's and work in corporate finance. My main goal is to save cash over the next 3-5 years and in the meantime get educated - right now I am leaning towards a buy and hold/rent for cash flow long term strategy (SFH). My hopes is that this will help my family become financially independent over the next 15-20 years.

As far as saving goes, I think I need money for at least 20% down, as well as a rainy day fund for fixes, empty vacancy, "contingency", etc. My thinking for this cash reserve would be at least 1 years worth of rent - as a starting point. I'd also like to explore creating a separate LLC, to limit exposure and any possibly liabilities to my family & personal home. Is this a sound plan? Any thoughts would be appreciated.

Other than reading the message boards & learning about my local real estate market, does anyone have any required reading (books)?

Is it worth it to pursue my own real estate license (save on fees/commissions) or should I find one that I trust and deal with them?

Anyone aware of any local clubs/groups in the DFW area that talk real estate?  I always think it's helpful to learn from others - the way I see it, the more information & perspectives that I hear, the better.  Then I can decipher from there.

Thanks,

Jacob