New investor in Rochester, NY (can I quit my job yet?)

[Melisa Claxton]

Hi all!  I'm a new investor in Rochester, NY.  I've been mostly lurking on BP for about a month and I've chatted with a few local folks, but I thought it was time to finish my profile and introduce myself. 

I love this place!  I tend to get a little (a lot) obsessive when I'm learning something new, and this site has kept me blissfully overwhelmed.  I almost wish I had a longer commute to work so I could listen longer to the podcasts.

I've wanted to do SOMETHING with real estate for years, but I really believed I needed the (well-paid) Corporate America gig while raising kids.  Wish I had found you all sooner - I may have done things differently.  On the positive side, I get to take the leadership and project management skills I've gained with me in to real estate. 

My partner owns two duplexes near Swillburg, and I've offered to take over management of those units so I can learn more about the business.  My goal is to expand the rental portfolio over the next 2 years to the point where I can justify working full-time in real estate.  My true passion is in renovating single-family homes, though - I got a taste of if when I realized the home I was living in wouldn't sell for what I owed on it.  I was able to increase the value significantly with some recommendations from a good agent, a little cash, and a lot of sweat equity.  The house was under contract in less than 4 days over a holiday weekend - what a feeling!  I just love the process of making ugly pretty. 

Looking forward to meeting you all! 

Melisa