New from Chicago

[Jonathan Morris]

I just wanted to say hi and introduce myself to the BP Community. I should also add a Thank You for all of the knowledge I have gained since joining the forums. I figured it was about time to make a formal introduction. I have actually posted some questions on the forums. As a result, I have gotten great information and been in contact with some incredibly helpful people. I have been reading so much information from this website but have been apprehensive about an introduction.

I have always believed that the way to financial freedom is through real estate. I have never really pursued anything until now. By "pursued", I mean just reading and trying to gain knowledge. I think if I spell out my goals here, maybe that will help push me to taking action to accomplish them. I want to learn how to rehab houses for profit. I believe I could become really good at this over time. The profits I gain from rehabbing would be used to purchase rental property. Ultimately, I would like to purchase and hold onto several rental properties such as 3 flats or bigger apartment buildings. The goal would be to generate enough cash flow to pay for my monthly expenses. And all the while, I could continue rehabbing houses. I know this probably sounds like some newbie fantasizing and not realizing how much hard work will go into this. I truly believe that to become great at anything, an individual needs passion and commitment. I believe I have the passion and I will have the commitment. I just need to take that first step. When taking that first step, it seems like there is so much information and so many directions in which to take that first step. Finding BP seems to have been a step in the right direction but I need to take that next step. I think the next step would be to find a local REIA to attend. So far I have come across three: 1) Chicago Area Real Estate Investors Association (CAREIA), 2) Chicago Creative Investors Association (CCIA), and 3) WCRT. If anyone has any other suggestions or comments about the ones I mentioned, I would appreciate it. I know that much of this business (as well as many other businesses) is about relationships. The next step for me should probably be to develop relationships and gain knowledge from others by going to some REIA meetings.

From my real estate investing, I am not looking for an extravagant lifestyle like Donald Trump. I just want to gain the knowledge of how to locate a property for a discount, rehab it, and sell it for profit. If I am able to become proficient at that I will gain the confidence that I can become financially free and live a comfortable life.

To the BP community, thank you for everything so far. And thank you for the future support that I know I will receive while here.