All Forum Posts by: Ben Gammon

Hey @Jameelah Jordan! 🎉 Congrats on your success and reaching for bigger goals! This community rocks, and you'll totally find the answers and support you need here! 👏

Hey Matt! Welcome to the conversation! I noticed your question about jumping into the real estate scene, and since I've got a construction company, run a property management gig, own some rentals, and have roots in Cincinnati, I figured I'd share some thoughts in a more casual way.

So, you're considering the real estate game – good call! With my background, I'd suggest playing to your strengths. Your construction and property management skills are gold here. Think about how you can bring value through renovations or smart property management strategies. And speaking of home turf, since you know Cincinnati inside out, why not explore opportunities in your own backyard? Look for areas that are buzzing or where the rental demand is picking up.

Now, let's talk variety. Diversify your real estate portfolio a bit. Given your involvement in different areas, consider checking out various property types – residential, commercial, whatever floats your boat. And hey, networking is a game-changer. Connect with local real estate folks or potential partners. Share ideas, swap stories, and who knows, you might stumble upon your next big venture through collaboration.

Hello there! Welcome to the realm of real estate investing, and kudos on your involvement in property management, your personal rentals, and your construction company. It's great that you're exploring ways to expand your passive income to enjoy more time at home with your 6-month-old baby.

You should explore the potential to leverage the equity in your current properties. With your Tri-Plex in Grand Junction and the commercial building, there may be opportunities to use these assets to secure financing for additional investments. This approach allows you to maximize returns without solely relying on personal income.

While traditional financing might pose challenges, consider looking into hard money lending as a viable alternative. Research local hard money lenders in the areas you're interested in and familiarize yourself with their terms. Keep in mind that interest rates may be higher, but the flexibility and speed of obtaining funds can be advantageous.

Given your goal of passive income, the buy-and-hold strategy is a strong option. With your current funds, explore purchasing additional rental properties. Research markets in Oregon, Idaho, Colorado, and Montana to identify areas with growth potential and reasonable property values.

Come to network and learn about real estate investing on the 2nd Wednesday of the month. 

Hey Nick, 

Here are some things to look for when searching for a property manager. 

Selecting a competent and reliable property manager is crucial for the successful management of your real estate investments. Here are key qualities and considerations to look for in a property manager:

1. Experience:
   • Look for a property manager with a proven track record in managing properties similar to yours, whether residential or commercial.
2. Licenses and Certifications:
   • Ensure that the property manager holds any required licenses and certifications for property management in your state or locality.
3. Knowledge of Local Laws and Regulations:
   • A good property manager should have a strong understanding of local and state landlord-tenant laws and other relevant regulations.
4. Communication Skills:
   • Effective communication is crucial in property management. Look for a manager who is responsive, clear in their communication, and can effectively handle both tenants and property owners.
5. Organizational Skills:
   • Property management involves juggling various tasks. A skilled property manager should be well-organized, capable of handling multiple responsibilities, and able to meet deadlines.
6. Marketing and Tenant Acquisition:
   • A property manager should have a strategy for marketing vacant properties to attract and retain quality tenants.
7. Tenant Screening Process:
   • A good property manager conducts thorough tenant screenings, including credit checks, rental history, and employment verification, to secure reliable tenants.
8. Maintenance and Repairs:
   • Look for a property manager with a network of reliable contractors and maintenance personnel to promptly address any repairs or issues on the property.
9. Financial Management:
   • A property manager should be adept at financial management, including rent collection, budgeting, and providing regular financial reports to property owners.
10. Technology Adoption:
    • In the modern era, property managers should leverage technology for tasks like online rent payments, property maintenance requests, and financial reporting.
11. Problem-Solving Skills:
    • Challenges will inevitably arise in property management. A good property manager should be adept at problem-solving and conflict resolution.
12. Transparent Fee Structure:
    • Understand the property manager's fee structure and ensure it aligns with your budget and expectations. Look for transparency in all financial dealings.
13. Client References:
    • Ask for and contact references from other property owners who have worked with the manager. This can provide valuable insights into their performance and reliability.
14. Commitment to Property Improvement:
    • A proactive property manager should be interested in enhancing the value of your property over time, offering suggestions for improvements and upgrades.
15. Ethical Conduct:
    • Choose a property manager who operates with high ethical standards and integrity, treating both tenants and property owners fairly and transparently.

Remember to interview multiple candidates, ask detailed questions, and trust your instincts when selecting a property manager. A good match will contribute significantly to the success and profitability of your real estate investments.

Howdy! 

I have 10 years of property management experience, 5 years in development and decided I'm going to venture into property management and development for others because I keep getting asked to do it anyways. 

What is on your wish list for a property management company? 

What are some of the shortcoming you've seen in other property management companies? 

Where do you think you could see some improvements in the process? 

Would love to hear your feedback. Thanks! 

Piling on here. 

TSP wall cleaner in a bucket

wash the walls

if the walls are a semi gloss to gloss then I'd sand them first. 

If not use a paint with primer.

Congrats, which neighborhood is your property?

Does anyone have a private money lender pitch deck they would be willing to share? 

I'm growing my business and have interested lenders but want to have a polished presentation. I'd be happy to share back a finished product. 

I'm a rental investor, Real Estate Agent, Property Manager, Contractor, own 7 units and have successfully completed $400,000 in rehab and repaid to lenders. 

As a property manager, real estate agent, developer, real estate investor and contractor in the Cincinnati market I would subjectively say it's a good market. But there are other good markets as well. It all depends on what you want. It sounds like you're on the start of your investing journey so you have to ask yourself how active of a hand do you want to play in finding your rentals, the rehab, property management, etc. Or do you want a turn key service? Whatever you decide I think you should educate yourself on what it is you want and never outsource your due diligence on what is or isn't a good deal or what you're looking for. 

I'm an investor from Cincinnati wanting to take a closer look at Dayton. 

I've love to meet up for coffee and discuss different neighborhoods. I definitely don't want to 

invest in a war zone. Does anyone know a good person to start with? Should I just show up to

a local REIA meeting?