New investor needing help on a marketing/acquisition strategy

[Patrick Martone]

Hello Biggerpockets community,

I am a newbie investor looking to make my first purchase in the next 3 months. I will be taking out a Line Of Credit on our current home in addition to my own cash. I expect to have around 250k total.

I am partnering with my father and working full-time project managing the Rehab process.

These are my tentative goals for the next few years.

2017: Buy first SFH flip

2018: Flip fourth SFH, reach 300k in equity

2019: House-hack MHR, phase out of SFH flips

2020: Buy subsequent MFR, bid at auctions

2022: Buy Commercial Property, Participate in syndications

Right now I am looking at properties in NJ as it is easiest. I have I feeling I will end up in PA due to the regulation, taxing, and cost in NJ.

How should I proceed with my marketing campaign as I have not decided on a location. I move around NYC, PA, and NJ a lot so I have a basic knowledge of the surrounding areas. I don’t want to begin direct mail until I am certain of a location.

Would it make more sense to go with an agent?

Should I do a We buy houses post on Craigslist to test the waters?

I would like to go for REO properties ideally?

Any insight on how to proceed with marketing would be amazing! Thank you

-Pat