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Updated over 6 years ago,
Derek - noob from Hermosa Beach CA
Hello.
My name is Derek Crawford. I’m new to the world of real estate investing. I currently “rent hack” (probably illegal) in the city of Hermosa Beach in the South Bay Area of LA county.
I found BiggerPockets researching ways to make additional income so that I might be able to afford the house that I am renting now. I don’t currently own property or have much real estate investing experience but I’ve always been pretty good at sniffing out a dollar and have a good eye for value.
I grew up in Whittier CA (LA county) most my life. Mom was a Resident manager. Dad was a Handyman. So yes, we were pretty poor lol. We lived in a 30 unit townhome style complex on the rougher side of town. I used to work with my dad for beer money when I was younger and took over for a while after he got sick and eventually passed away from cancer. I've always been a DIY type of person so I am pretty comfortable around tools. I've also worked as a painter for the VA and travelled as a sandblaster/painter/laborer which allowed me to live in different cities for months at a time. I currently work at the Torrance Refinery (previously ExxonMobil) as an operator/firefighter.
I’ve been looking at houses for the last 2 years. After saving enough for a down payment, I’m having a hard time with this Los Angeles market! You don’t get much for what you pay for. I have a real estate agent friend (Quentin Priddy) who takes me out hunting for deals every now and again. Looking to house hack something here (multiplex or single family with income rental potential) but even with a renter the numbers aren’t ideal for me.
I am so glad I found this Forum! So much helpful information. For whatever reason, I woke up one day, felt like I could achieve financial independence and create an early retirement. Little did I know I would accidentally stumble into a place where people are actually doing just that. Looking forward to being a part of this.
“You know how to tell someone is from California? They’ll tell you.”