All Forum Posts by: Benedict Wills

Good point about Hagerstown being a poorer area, also seems like houses tend to stay un-sold there for a while. However, this may present the opportunity to pick up some cheap multifamily, I will have to plan a drive up there soon.

Michael, how do you feel about Frederick area? I have a cousin that lives up there and it seems like a great area that would attract low-maintenance tenants.

As a current UMD student (although not an investor), I will say that landlords appear to charge very high rents. Houses in the old-town area especially (in high demand by students) can rent for upwards of $5000 a month. On the flip side, students want these houses to throw parties at, so one would have to account for a lot of potential damages and liabilities. I also don't think UMCP houses go on sale very often, and it might be hard to find a great deal, although with that kind of rent you may not have to. 

I definitely think there is opportunity, and its something I've considered myself. I imagine there are several tired landlords who don't want to deal with obnoxious students anymore and may be waiting for someone to take properties off their hands. There are also a few multifamily/small apartment buildings in the area, although a lot of that stock has recently been demolished to make way for larger, 100+ unit complexes.

Hi everyone!

My name is Ben and I am a senior at the University of Maryland (go Terps!) interested in amassing a sizeable real estate portfolio over the long term to both supplement my career income and provide for retirement. I will be graduating in a few months, and have committed myself to purchasing my first investment property by the end of 2016 using money from my job. (Upon graduation, I will be working in consulting/financial services in Annapolis)

I have very big long term goals, but I believe that I am capable of achieving what I set my mind to. I have been a long time lurker on the forums and listener of the podcast, and am excited to finally be a part of the community. Biggerpockets is without a doubt one of the best online communities out there, and as my experience in real estate gradually grows, I hope I can give back as much knowledge as it has given me.

I've lived in Maryland most of my life, and have always loved the state for its diversity relative to its size. I think this translates into real estate as well, with a wide variety of investment opportunities within the state. Although I am not by any means opposed to investing out of state, I would be interested to hear what any MD investors think of the various local markets, especially Hagerstown, which is one area I've been looking at specifically. 

Anyways, very excited to finally be active on the forum, and feel free to reach out if you are interested in connecting. Can't wait to begin this journey!