New Investor from San Jose, CA/Marseille, FR

[Cory Linstrum]

Greetings Bigger Pockets community!  

I'm a newbie investor from San Jose, CA but currently living in the south of France near Marseille.  I don't have a background at all in real estate but have been interested in it for many years.  I always thought you needed to have a lot of money in order to invest in real estate, and it wasn't until a friend of mine turned me on to BP that I realized that pretty much anyone can do it.  Excellent news!

My background:

I became a professional musician at 18 years old and spend the next 6 years touring and making music for Tooth and Nail/EMI Records.  I then spent the next 4 years as a concert promoter in San Jose, CA until the reality of living in the Silicon Valley came knocking.  I then transitioned into wine and liquor distribution for the next 9 years, working for a large company.  I learned a lot, grew within the company and became very effective at my job, finishing as a sales manager before leaving the company to move to the south of France.  Once in France, I became the head brewer of an up-and-coming craft brewery and spend the next 2 years refining their products and processes, as well as doubling their production.  Family obligations are now forcing me to move back to San Jose where I will be reprising my role at my former company as a sales manager.

Having recently turned 39 years old, I've been realizing how foolish my past financial decisions have been and have decided to make some drastic changes in order to right the course. I've ultimately decided to pursue long distance buy-and-hold/BRRRR real estate investing with the goal of building a large enough portfolio to not only build our retirement, but also to be able to help out my parents as they approach their difficult years.

Upon my arrival in San Jose in the upcoming months, I will be actively seeking networking and mentorship.  I would appreciate any guidance regarding how to choose a suitable market to invest in!  I would also be interested in potential partnerships as well as opportunities to help others.

Thrilled to join your community!