New Guy (a builder) from Northern Virginia/Maryland Area

[Matt Vaughn]

Hello all, my name's Matt Vaughn, and I'm brand new to Bigger Pockets. I'm 28, and my family of three currently lives in Alexandria. By profession, I'm a large commercial construction manager - building highly complex projects for the US Government. There's a lot I don't know about investing, but the rehab work is pretty familiar and comfortable.

I took a handful of real estate classes in college (Brigham Young University), and I've have since known that real estate would be my end game and retirement plan.

Mid-term, I'm interested in buy-and-holds, but Step 1 for us is our first home, for which I'm contemplating one of three strategies:

1. SFH, converting the basement into an accessory apartment. It appears that permitting for this may be a challenge in my area, and I haven't yet connected with an expert who has experience with this locally.
2. Duplex (bought or new construction) and living in one unit.
3. Fixer-upper.

Any other clever suggestions or feedback on these options?

I look forward to contributing to the community in every way I can and getting to know each of you. Hopefully I can be an asset in my area of expertise just as you guys are a great asset to me!