New Member: Calculator Pitfalls

[Shawn Johnson]

Hello All! I just joined the BP community and have been reading/viewing/listening like crazy. I have been analyzing several properties using the rental calculator and boy, is it easy to try and manipulate the numbers to make it look like a good deal. I've been using very conservative estimates in the calculator, so I'm giving myself an "accurate" representation of the property. However, I can see how someone could get themselves into trouble...

Anyway, I am looking forward to learning from everyone and making my "first" deal. I currently have a rental property in FL (Cape Canaveral area) that was my primary residence for 3 years before we moved out to South Korea (for 2 years). I am on the hunt for a property or two in the midwest (currently in the OK market) to add to my "portfolio." Back to the grind...

Take care!