New investor in Hartford County, Connecticut

[Philip Pape]

Hi everyone!

I recently joined BiggerPockets and would consider myself a new investor, although I did have several rental properties about 10 years ago that I unfortunately had to either short sell or foreclose on during the peak of the market. That was quite a learning experience.

Now that I am older and *wiser*(?), with a family and stable 9-5 job, my interest in real estate investing is again rekindled. Specifically, I'm interested in flipping modestly-priced single-family distressed properties in the Hartford County (Connecticut) area.

I've read all of the "getting started" material and quite a few forums, and I've even drafted a business plan. I've picked up a few books, such as J. Scott's books on flipping and estimating rehab costs. I also plan to attend an upcoming CTREIA function to start networking.

This newfound interest came about through serendipity. It turns out that the excellent contractor who rebuilt our back deck makes his living through flipping and rentals, and he's quite successful at it. I'm not surprised given the quality of his work, professionalism, and fair prices.He's the GC for his projects and likes to keep his woodworking skills active. 

Anyway, I've asked whether we can discuss his experiences, and I believe this will turn into the first of (hopefully) many relationships with fellow investors and mentors. We may go in as equity partners together on a deal (my proposal), or I may simply shadow him on a project to learn how everything works firsthand. Worst-case, he could be a reliable GC for a project and has many contacts. Apparently he finds most of his deals through bank REOs, some listed and some not. He also knows some lenders that provide construction loans with reasonable terms.

I know this is a long introduction, but I wanted to say "hello" to the BiggerPockets community, and I welcome any advice you have on where I might go from here (so as not to screw this up), or whether I can be of any help.

If you live within 45 minutes of the Hartford area, perhaps we can also meet up.

Last but not least, I would love any recommendations fellow CT residents might have for real estate attorneys, CPAs, banks, real estate agents, mortgage brokers, contractors, or handymen.

I look forward to this challenging journey to creating a solid and successful business, and to learning from this vibrant and knowledgeable community!