New Young Investor - Pittsburgh

[Cody Hunt]

     My name is Cody, I just graduated from college and I currently live in Cranberry Pa (rent free (for now)). I have a full time sales job (in Robinson) that provides me with a consistent schedule (9-5) as well as a decent wage. I have wanted to invest in real-estate since I was very young, but, unfortunately, don't know a single person in the business. I believe my best course to take (at this point in my career) is to invest in rental properties. I am currently looking for a residential property in which I will occupy one of the units that is priced well enough for me to afford, while providing enough cash flow to break even, or, preferably profit.

     I came from a family that worked hard and enjoyed their time away from work, but I am a little different. I crave educating myself in things outside my current field, and when I go home after a days work, the only thing I want to do is put my time to good use in something that will bring future returns. I want to start investing in real-estate because it fits the kind of person I am. It is VERY hard work, it brings future returns, and it allows for a future with financial freedom. I love working in general, but working for yourself brings a sense of fulfillment you cannot achieve at ANY job. I have the work ethic to achieve my goals, I have the time, drive, interest, intelligence, perseverance...etc. but what I do not have is the extensive knowledge of the real-estate industry. I have been studying a lot, listening to the Bigger Pockets Podcast, buying real-estate books that are suggested, meeting with realtors, meeting with banks...etc. but I don't actually know any other investors in the area. This post is meant to introduce myself to the community! I want to get to know everyone and learn about everyone else's experiences in Pittsburgh.I am excited to speak with each and every one of you and if you have any suggestions/questions for me please do not hesitate to ask!

[Jeremy Taggart]

@Cody Hunt Way to start thinking about jumping into investing early! House hacking is definitely the best way to start for someone right out of college. Really sets the stage and accelerates your ability to scale up in your investing career. I've done a few house hacks since graduating college and it's been great. It's still possible to find a place where you can make a profit while living there every month. I'm a fan of places that need some cosmetic work so you can make updates while you are living there and over time to build equity. If the cash flow is good enough on the property you can get it to the point where the cash flow can pay for the improvements on the building over time, allowing you to use your job income to save for the next one.