All Forum Posts by: CJ Moulton

@CJ Moulton Be careful not to get "analysis paralysis" looking at demographic data for any market. I have been an investor for over a decade and helping other investors (many OOS) buy and sell investment properties here in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. I would recommend that regardless of market you decide to invest in that you find a fellow investor/realtor that can help you purchase in the neighborhoods that make for ideal long term rentals. "Boots on the Ground" is much more valuable to you as a first time investor than looking at demographic data. We can help you select the right locations based on our years of experence as investors. Also, Dallas/Ft. Worth area is very strong for rentals because of the job market. Relocations to this area support this. U-Haul published data on top locations for one-way relocations. Look at the article here: https://www.uhaul.com/Articles/About/U-Haul-Growth-Metros-An...

If your interested in learning more why I invest here in the DFW area feel free to reach out directly to me. Words are free. Hope this helps.

Real Estate, Wellness, and Community Impact

As I move into 2025, I’m focused on deepening my faith and prioritizing wellness, mental health, self-control, and discipline. This year, I’m committed to creating balance in my life, letting faith guide my decisions both personally and professionally.

In my real estate journey, I combine my tech background with a passion for community-centered development. My focus is on affordable housing, especially mixed-use projects that serve both residential and community needs. I also diversify into alternative real estate, like self-storage, to stay ahead of emerging trends.

I’ve learned valuable lessons over the years, particularly the importance of clear communication and aligning expectations in partnerships. Today, I seek out like-minded individuals who share my values, focused on long-term success and making a meaningful impact.

What sets me apart is my dedication to creating real-world, tech-driven solutions that improve efficiency while benefiting both investors and the communities we serve. I'm passionate about teaching real estate in underserved communities and helping others build wealth through knowledge.

Looking Ahead: I’m seeking local and out of state investors, lenders, and professionals in the Atlanta area for STRs and MTRs, and in Birmingham, Phoenix, Columbus, Macon, and Augusta, GA for long-term rentals and small multifamily deals.

Let’s connect if you share my vision for creating real estate that not only generates wealth but also builds lasting, positive change.

If you are calling the listing agents to try and have them represent you remember 2 things, 1) not every state allows for dual agency (where one agent represents both the buyer and seller) and 2) even if it does, why would that agent, who already has a relationship with the seller and a fiduciary duty to get the seller the best deal they can, turn around and help you get the best price you can? Dual agency rarely works in everyone's favor. You may be better off interviewing some buyer's agents who can represent you. Talk with other investors at RE meetups to see who they use/would refer or how they are getting deals.

For strategy purposes, assess what your market looks like and find a niche. If you are looking to get properties for under the asking price, then don't shoot for the super cute house that has a line out the door for the open house the first week it is on the market. That type of home will be more likely to get multiple offers. Try instead to find properties that work for you but are getting overlooked by other people. Could be homes that need work, maybe have a funky layout but is a layout that is great for splitting into a two unit property, etc. It also usually helps to have a reason why you are offering a low offer that you can articulate to the seller/listing agent beyond just "I want it for less than what you are asking". What I mean by that is you can use the condition of the home, the layout, what other homes in the area have sold for and why this home is the same (if it sold lower) or different (if it sold higher) or whatever other information you have at your disposal to show why your price, even though lower than what they are expecting/asking, is a good deal for them.

Read books like Never Split the Difference to help you further with strategy. It is not great for multiple offer situations but it is a good read for one on one negotiations. 

Best of luck!