New member from South West Ohio, and Raleigh NC

[Chris Wallace]

 I've been self-employed for the last 5+ years as a Technician selling my labor and parts. I enjoy what I do, but it's billed hourly and no matter how much I can charge for an hour of my labor, it will always be limited by the number of hours I work. Having said that, despite having other commitments, I have time to do more in a work week.

I lucked into my first property. It's a NNN commercial property in Raleigh near where I grew up. I had the pleasure of dealing with the tenant, attorneys, etc. and surviving a lease renewal. I raised the yearly rate over 20%. They were underpaying, obviously. I learned a lot, understanding that it's just the tip of the iceberg of what I really should know. I've read a few books and I have at least one more on stand by.

There are a couple of houses in my neighborhood that are looking vacated and getting run down. As much as I would like a bigger/nicer house, it's not worth the debt payments and higher operating costs to me. I'm considering working with my girlfriend and our teenagers to undertake a flip or possibly longer term SFH rental for additional income. I've lived in this house for nearly 17 years. I will likely be in this house another 5 years and then plan to move back to NC or possibly much farther South. Mexico, Caribbean, FL, who knows. Just somewhere warm!

Next step for me is to seek out other like minded investors and start attending any weekly or monthly meetings.  If anyone has a recommendation, I would appreciate the advice or information.

Thanks!

Chris