New Investor in South Bend, Indiana

[Mehul Patel]

Hello everyone,

I am new to the BP forum (decided to join after watching BiggerPockets videos on YouTube) and a complete noobie when it comes to real estate investing. Originally from Chicago but moved to South Bend, Indiana 3 years ago and became a new home owner about 8 months ago.  Over last couple years I have only invested in stocks but am now looking to get into real estate investing. I currently work full time and enjoy my job but my goal is to start earning passive income through buying and holding multi-unit properties that generate positive cash flow.  I was curious on how other investors go about scouting properties to buy. At the moment I only use Zillow and search for multi-unit properties. Also, is it a good idea to use the same real estate agent I used to purchase my current residence or look for a real estate agent that predominantly works with investors? Any advice regarding investing in multi-unit properties would be greatly appreciated. I have an excellent credit score, enough liquid cash to put 20% down on properties that I have been researching but the thought of failing at my first RE investment opportunity has prevented me from taking actions. After reading many of the success stories here on BiggerPockets I have made it a personal goal to become an owner of a positive cash flowing rental property by the end of the year!

-Mehul