Started with a vision 4 years ago. Now own 9 Single family homes

[Ammar T.]

Hi from Florida . This is my first post on this site and I am excited to be here alongside likeminded people. I always wondered where the Buy and hold investors hang out and talk. I have basically been doing this on my own for the last 4 years and have strangely been my own mentor. I am a licensed Real estate agent with a big passion to own as many rental properties as possible. My goal 4 years ago was to own 12 homes.  One that I live in and 11 rental properties. Well, That goal has now been upgraded to 15 by the end of 2018. This will be tough as buying and setting up my rentals require a lot of money,energy, patience, education, and full determination. 

I am 41 years old and want to fully retire in the next 5 years and everyday this goal seems more attainable. I have learned from my experiences in the last 4 years that where there is a vision and determination, things can happen. I would love to share my ideas. There is no specific way to invest in Real Estate and it is always interesting  to hear how others reach their goals.  It was so difficult buying my first rental but it seemed to get easier with every deal. Sometimes in a scary way. I cant believe that I own over 1 million dollars in assets. Never would have thought it would be possible before. I guess Real Estate investing is somewhat of an art. I have paid cash for homes, conventional loans, owner financing at great terms, and just recently did a Cash out refinance and bought another one. I cant believe there are people that still let their money sit in the bank earning 1% interest. 

[Ammar T.]

Originally posted by @Mia Anne Reeves:

Hi, my name is Mia and I'm new to BiggerPockets. Congrats Ammar on your success! My husband and I currently own 3 rental properties, and he is working on selling one. It's lots of work since we do everything ourselves, and finding good contractors are not easy. Could you give some tips on how to find good contractors? On the bright side, I do think that we learn a lot everyday and plan to buy a four-plex next year. 

 Hi there. My best advise is to find 1 or 2 people that you trust. Always pull permits for work that requires permits. Never take shortcuts. I always say that shortcuts equal payouts. The way I found my contractors is I asked around. I hired him to do a small job to see how is work ethic was, cost and quality of work.  If I think the price is not what I was expecting I would then get a second or third bid. I go with my gut instinct on these issues.  I also will post a recommendation request post on facebook looking for handymen and contractors. Best of success on your new deal and future deals. I am new to BP as you are and look forward to being inspired and hopefully inspiring someone.