Newbie from San Francisco

[Jeremy Margaritondo]

Hello Bigger Pockets!

I'm Jeremy, a newbie investor (no deals yet) living in San Fransisco. I've been in SF for a little over 4 years now, however I'm originally from the Midwest. I grew up in Michigan (Detroit suburbs), graduated from Michigan State University, and lived in Chicago for 10 years before moving out to California.

I just got married about a year ago and my wife and I have spent a lot of time since, working on getting our finances in order and making plans for the future. In researching investment opportunities I started hearing and reading more and more about real estate investing, and that's why I've ended up here.

Long story short, I've read a few of the recommended books, done some lurking on the Bigger Pockets Forum's, listened to almost all the podcasts, and I'm itching to move on to the next steps. Here's what I'm leaning toward right now:

• Small Multi-family
• Turnkey
• Chicago Area
• Under $200,000
• Safe Neighborhood

I'm leaning toward Turnkey as it seems like a nice option for someone like me who's living in San Francisco and trying to buy in Chicago. How I spend my time is also incredibly important to me. I don't mind spending time doing tons of research and crunching numbers, but I don't really want to manage rehab projects, tenants, etc.

I chose Chicago as the market or a couple reasons. One, I lived there for 10 years, so I know the area at least a little. Two, I have lots of family and friends there. Three, it seems like one of the few markets with turnkey multifamily opportunities. And four, I travel there at least two or three times a year.

Anyway, I have so many questions, but I won't put them all here in this intro. I imagine it's probably better if I post them separately in the relevant forums. So, look out for a barrage of questions coming in from me, 'casue I'm gonna need advice :)

Lastly, I'm a big beer fan, so if you're in the Bay Area and want to grab a beer and chat about real estate, hit me up.

Thanks in advance for all the amazing advice I know I'm about to get form this community and the great advice I've already found here.

Jeremy

[Account Closed]

Jeremy,

Any specific areas of Chicago that you're looking for? You're not going to find anything in Chicago proper for under $200,000 unless you're buying in a warzone.

The southwest suburbs may be a good option for you at your price range. Blue Island, Oak Lawn, Willow Springs, Hickory Hills may be good cities to start looking in.

We specialize in the suburbs of Chicago...while we only deal with commercial multifamily buildings (5+ units), please let me know if you have any questions.

Good luck!

- Troy