Hello from Flagler Beach, Florida

[Faith Haren]

Hey Everyone!

It's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am a twenty-four year old college grad currently living with my parents and working as a waitress part-time. I joined the Bigger Pockets forum after listening to the podcast and was especially inspired by the episode featuring Ashley Hamilton from Detroit, Michigan (Hi, Ashley!!) because I can strongly identify with her experience, minus the divorce and two kids. I do consider myself a "third parent" to my six younger siblings also living at home and sharing my room... but that's an entirely different subject. 

As Brandon Turner says, "Like Neo in the Matrix, there's no going back." As much as I appreciate my family's generosity, they are underwater on their own mortgage and I CRAVE financial freedom.

My primary objective is to secure a primary residence for myself. 1 bed, 1 bath in a safe neighborhood would do the trick. Once that's complete, I look forward to investing in and renting out single-family homes at small profit margins as a way of "giving back", much like Ashley has done. I have an exceptional credit score, solid education, zero debt and a passion to invest. I just don't know how to start.

I'm asking for help from anyone who can share feedback or resources on financing a starter home, how to snatch a good one, and whether or not a low down payment (under 20%) is a smart option. Thank you to everyone who contributes their time and energy on Bigger Pockets! I can't wait to connect.

[Keith Carey]

@Faith Haren, I was inspired by @Ashley Hamilton too! The biggest thing that struck me was her high integrity and honoring people.  This has lead me to reach out the Detroit area and connect with some great people (@Jamiel Strickland and Ashley).  Everyone is here to help.  

For me, reading the books helped alot.  I must admit that I've bought four and have only read one, Out of State Investing, since I'm juggling alot obligations (no excuses).  Also, Brandon Turner talks about Analyzing Deals and as a non-Pro member you don't have unlimited but you can do a few.  This helped me alot! To be able to see a deal and think if the numbers make sense or not.

One more thing, and someone else can chime in since I've only purchased two homes and by no means an expert, but I think if you House hack then you wouldn't need to put a 20% down?