Newbie from Tampa, FL!

[Brian Goodling]

Good afternoon everyone! 

Man, I have to say, it feels great to finally work up the nerve to post something on here. I've been a biggerpockets podcast listener for quite some time, I've read many of the books suggested on here, and I've been lurking through the forums as of late. But here we are! As the title says, I am newer to the real estate investment game and I currently live in Tampa, FL. I dont have any deals under my belt at this time, but am seriously pushing towards my first within the next 3 months. I think my initial strategy will be long-tern single family rentals. I've been wanting to get into real estate since I've been in high school and now that I've been working a full time job for 2 years now I feel as if I finally have the means to jump in (after getting some real estate education of course, thanks biggerpockets by the way). I'm always down to discuss different strategies, compare notes on a property with others, and really starting to get the ball rolling. Lets do it, lets help each other live out the dream! 

If anyone who lives in/near Tampa would like to possibly grab lunch some day or just talk about the real estate world I would be 100% down for it. Cheers to starting on the path to financial freedom, and best of luck out there! 

[Nicole A.]

@Brian Goodling If you are low on cash, then you may need to save more money for a while. You will typically need 20-25% down for an investment property. The only type of property I know of where it's generally 10% down is for a "second home"...this is not an investment property but literally your second home.

I recommend you get actively involved in local area REIAs. There are plenty of groups in the Tampa area and you can attend their meetings. Network in person. You might find private money/hard money, but they will still expect you to have money in the deal too.

I'm not sure what you mean by "currently living with" your wife. Does that mean she is not interested in investing like you are? Or does it simply mean you can't buy a primary residence because you already have one with her and she is not willing to move? I think house-hacking really deserves a deeper look for your current situation.