Newbie in Panama City, Florida

[Octavia Christian]

Hello BP, 

My name is Octavia Christian. I'm active duty Navy stationed in Panama City, FL and realized I'm tired of procrastinating with purchasing my first property. I am looking for people in the PC / PCB area to learn from! I would love to shadow you or have a conversation about your experiences in real estate. I'm constantly reading different posts to gain knowledge which I definitely enjoyed reading and learning from others experiences. I really don't know where to start but I don't want my fears to hold me back from purchasing. I am interested in purchasing a duplex or triplex and I want to start small where I am able to manage financially. I am married with no dependents and we currenly don't own any properties. I spoke with a coworker and he stated I should start networking so here I am. My goals are to make my first purchase in 2018 utilizing my VA loan. Wish me luck !

[Nathan Platter]

Hi Octavia,

Welcome to the Forums!

I HIGHLY recommend taking advantage of the VA loan and buy a 2-4plex.

I think once you move out (e.g. to buy a SFH for you) you could then get an FHA on the SFH and still keep the VA loan on the now-non-homestead rental, but be sure to get that verified by a mortgage broker/lender.

The BEST first step I ever did was buy an FHA duplex, and just starting is the hardest part.

WOuld love to hear what you end up doing!