Hi from NOVA/DMV, but looking to invest in South Carolina

[Selena McLean-Hudson]

Selena Mc. here! Recently separated Air Force veteran living in the DMV area, but looking to purchase properties in SC, specifically in the Columbia and Sumter areas. My husband and I grew up at Shaw AFB so we are familiar with the area. We purchased our primary residence in Oct 2016 and that's the extent of my real estate endeavors.

This year I decided that I wanted to purchase my 1st investment property by the time I turn 40 (in 6 years). Then after a couple of weeks, I decided that I wanted to purchase my 1st investment property within 1 year...NOW I'm currently applying for a HELOC so I can purchase my 1st property in the next couple of months!

My overall goal with real estate investing is financial freedom. I want to retire in my early 50s (if not sooner) and travel the world. I think I can obtain that through buy and hold multi-family properties.

I don't remember exactly how I came across BiggerPockets, but this is my 1st forum post, I'm listening to the BP podcasts, watching BP webinars, and I'm reading The Book on Rental Property Investing.

While I'm waiting on the HELOC approval, I'm not sure if I should be making contact with local realtors, property managers, etc. in SC so that I have a team in place once I have funds in hand. Another obstacle I have is my spouse. He isn't 100% on board, but he is s..l..o..w..l..y..coming along.

Looking forward to FINALLY jumping in and ultimately changing my future.