All Forum Posts by: Wale Lawal

 All the best.

@Christian Artuso

Since you're based in Chicago, consider networking with local investors through meetups, real estate investment groups, or BiggerPockets forums to gain insights on the best neighborhoods and strategies. Since you've already started learning through books and podcasts, your next step should be narrowing down your investment strategy—whether it's house hacking, multifamily, or BRRRR. Connecting with experienced investors and those just starting out can help you refine your approach and take action on your first deal.

Good luck!

@Derek Soohoo

If you're looking to invest in multifamily properties in Chicago, start by researching different neighborhoods to understand rental demand, property values, and landlord regulations. Areas like Pilsen, Bronzeville, and parts of the South and West Sides offer opportunities for value-add investments, while North Side neighborhoods provide more stability but at higher prices. Consider house hacking with an FHA loan for lower upfront costs or explore creative financing options if capital is limited. Networking with local investors, joining Chicago real estate meetups, and connecting with experienced agents can help you find the right deals.

Good luck!

@Jordan Brown

With $50,000 saved and no debt, you have a strong starting position for real estate investing. House hacking by purchasing a duplex, triplex, or single-family home with extra rooms can help you reduce or eliminate housing costs while building equity. If you're in a high-cost area, consider out-of-state markets where you could buy a rental property outright. Other options include the BRRRR strategy, which allows you to recycle your capital by refinancing after renovations, or partnering with an experienced investor to scale faster. To move forward, determine whether you prefer local or out-of-state investing, cash flow or appreciation, and self-management or hiring a property manager.

Good luck!

@Tara Josberger

Charleston is a strong market for real estate, but local regulations play a big role in investment strategy. Short-term rentals (STRs) are highly regulated, particularly downtown, so areas like Mount Pleasant, James Island, and North Charleston may offer more flexibility. Long-term rentals (LTRs) are stable due to Charleston's strong job market, with areas like West Ashley, Goose Creek, and Summerville showing solid rental demand. If you're open to rehab projects, North Charleston and Hanahan have value-add opportunities for appreciation. To get started, define your investment strategy, run cash flow and ROI calculations, network with local investors, and explore financing options like DSCR loans or HELOCs.

Good luck!

@Khaled Seirafi

Phoenix is a strong market for multifamily investing due to population growth, job expansion, and landlord-friendly laws. To get familiar with the area, network through local real estate groups like AZREIA, connect with multifamily brokers, and explore neighborhoods firsthand to assess tenant demand. Key areas with strong rental demand include Central Phoenix, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, and the West Valley. While cap rates are better than in California, finding value-add properties is crucial as prices have risen. If investing remotely, consider hiring a property manager to handle tenant and maintenance issues.

Good luck!

@Jacorion Williams

Congrats on closing your first property. Since you're using an FHA 203k loan and house hacking, focus on managing renovations efficiently to avoid delays and unexpected costs. Ensure your contractor has a clear timeline, keep extra cash reserves, and start marketing your rental rooms early. Once renovations are complete, carefully screen tenants, set clear house rules, and consider furnishing the units with utilities included to attract reliable renters. Long-term, look into refinancing once property values increase to lower your interest rate or pull equity for your next investment.

Good luck!

@Bianca Meza

It’s great that you’re already house hacking and renting to travel nurses! Since you have more time than capital right now, consider side hustles like Airbnb co-hosting, property management for other investors, or even leveraging your nursing background to consult for mid-term rental owners. These can help you build capital while gaining valuable experience. Long-term rentals are a solid choice, but mid-term rentals in medical hubs (like yours) can offer strong cash flow with less turnover. Need more specific investing strategies? DM me, and I’ll point you in the right direction!

Good luck!

@Robert Ok

Choosing between single-family homes (SFH) and multifamily properties depends on your budget, risk tolerance, and long-term goals. SFHs are easier to finance and manage but have limited cash flow and scalability. Multifamily properties provide higher rental income and lower vacancy risk, but they require higher upfront costs and more management. If you're just starting out, house hacking a duplex or SFH with an ADU can be a great way to reduce living expenses while building equity. Need help deciding which strategy fits your situation? DM me, and I'll point you in the right direction!

Good luck!

 @Cameron Tope

Thank you for the recommendation. I try my best to help as many people as possible. I know you are a great Property Manager in the Houston Area helping Landlord optimize their rental portfolio and keep units occupied.

Keep up the great work.

cc: @Morgan Tondre