Small fish in a big pond

[Jonathan Santa]

Hello BP Community,

I have been on bigger pockets for about a month or so now. I find the community to be enlightening. While I have posted once in these forums, I realize that I never actually formally introduced myself. My name is Jonathan and I am a north Jersey resident (hence the small fish in a big pond title lol). This market appears to have its difficulties for newbie investors, but I plan on making it work. My goal is to become a part time RE investor through utilizing the simple buy and hold strategy. Once I have some experience and the appropriate network, I can see myself transitioning into Brandon's coined BRRRR method. I see myself utilizing an FHA loan to house hack my first multi-family that I can grab at a maximum of 80 cents on the dollar. Because taxes are so high where I live, it is crucial that I find a true deal. I have a farm area in mind. Last year I decided to get my real estate license, but quickly realized that game was not for me at the moment. I have recently placed it in referral mode and remain grateful for the knowledge acquired through the journey. I currently work as a union laborer out of Rockland County NY. Depending on the contractor and the season, I have weekends off. My downtime as of now has consisted largely in educating myself (reading/ podcast/ webinars/ online coaching). While I am content with self educating I am also hungry to meet locals, find mentors, and expand my network. I understand successful investors time is precious, but I would like to provide services and add value. If this means cleaning a unit to get it ready to rent or cold calling for potential deals that is more than fine with me. You let me know what you need and I will do my best to be of service. Finding and building a relationship would be amazing, but regardless of the outcome I will continue to move forward in my RE investing journey. I see my first deal being struck within the next 6 months!