Greetings from Forest Hills, Queens (NYC)

[Chad G.]

Hi everyone, my name is Chad Gross. I am 35, engaged and currently reside in New York, NY. We are getting married in October and plan to move within a year or so afterwards. I currently work as an executive in the IT field and my fiancé works as a project manager in construction building skyscrapers and other urban structures. We are aiming for high growth tech hubs, since they also bring a lot of construction jobs.  Raleigh, NC is highest on the list, but we are also considering Austin, TX and Denver, CO.

We've been focused on paying off our school and car loans and are almost there, which will leave us with just our mortgage. I have been interested in REI ever since reading Rich Dad Poor Dad about 10 years ago, but have always been reluctant. I recently became motivated again and found BP.com. This site and the podcasts have been amazing! I am very interested in passive income and wealth creation, therefore buy and hold residential is where I believe we will start. I would like to retire by 55.

[Michael Jobe]

@Chad G.

Welcome to the site! Here's another vote for Raleigh (albeit, a bit biased). I'm a native West Virginian but moved to this area from Miami/Ft. Lauderdale and I must say that it has grown on me so much that I doubt I'll be moving away anytime soon. Between the great weather, the highly educated and (mostly) well paid population, and the endless amount of activities available, I am definitely sold on the Triangle. Did I mention our real estate market is booming? Let me know if you're planning to visit and need a tour guide!