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All Forum Posts by: Cole Jennings

Cole Jennings has started 2 posts and replied 16 times.

Post: Buying First Rental Property Out of State

Cole JenningsPosted
  • New to Real Estate
  • Clifton, NJ
  • Posts 16
  • Votes 10
Quote from @Jimmy Lieu:
Quote from @Cole Jennings:

I am new to real estate investing and I am planning on buying a 100k house in the Cleveland area and renting out to section 8. I don't live in Ohio so I would be an out of state investor. The market around where I live is too expensive for me at the moment. Just want some advice on whether this is a good idea for a first-time investor or if I should take a different direction.

Hi Cole, I am really experienced with the Cleveland market and will let you know to be VERY VERY careful about the location you buy. Even if a house is hitting the 2% rule on paper, there are locations that you won't ever be able to collect rent and dealing with constant police calls/break ins. It's not worth the headache! Additionally, the constant turnover will kill any profitability you have. All I'm saying is to be really careful and even if a deal looks great on paper in Cleveland, you want to make sure you're not buying in a warzone. Personally, I moved to Columbus where the neighborhoods are a lot better and can still hit the 1% rule and have tons of amazing appreciation here! Happy to connect and answer any questions you have!


 Thank you for the reply, definitely looking around in many locations and will keep that in mind.

Post: Buying First Rental Property Out of State

Cole JenningsPosted
  • New to Real Estate
  • Clifton, NJ
  • Posts 16
  • Votes 10
Quote from @Arman Ahmed:

@Cole Jennings

Cleveland can be a solid market for investing, but as an out-of-state investor, it’s important to approach it with a solid plan. Section 8 can offer stable rental income, but tenant screening, property management, and maintenance costs are key factors to consider. Some investors mitigate risks by focusing on B-class neighborhoods with strong rental demand and reliable tenant pools.

Have you had a chance to visit the area yet? It’s always a good idea to walk the neighborhoods, understand rent comps, and connect with local professionals before making a decision. What criteria are you using to select your first property?*


 Thanks for the reply, I haven't had a chance to visit the area yet but that is a good idea. I have talked to a realter from the area and he sent me information for a lender and property management company. He says good things about them. I am looking to buy a property at about 100k with a conventional loan that is basically ready to move in. I am going to use BiggerPockets rental property calculator when I find a deal I am interested in, and I look to make about 400-500 per month in profit.

Post: Buying First Rental Property Out of State

Cole JenningsPosted
  • New to Real Estate
  • Clifton, NJ
  • Posts 16
  • Votes 10
Quote from @Bailey Coleman:
Quote from @Matthew Crivelli:
Quote from @Cole Jennings:

I am new to real estate investing and I am planning on buying a 100k house in the Cleveland area and renting out to section 8. I don't live in Ohio so I would be an out of state investor. The market around where I live is too expensive for me at the moment. Just want some advice on whether this is a good idea for a first-time investor or if I should take a different direction.

I personally think Cleveland OH is a tough market for out of state investors. I've seen local wholesalers and property mangers try to take advantage of people out of state. You really need to go to Cleveland, look at the property / neighborhood, do your own inspections, etc. I have also seen section 8 tenants completely DESTROY rental properties. If you are trying to buy c class rentals 6 hours away, you will run into issues. How much cashflow will you make if you have to renovate the entire interior every 5 years?   


It can be challenging with the wrong team, and I’ve seen out-of-state investors get taken advantage of. I highly recommend visiting at least once to gain a better understanding of the market. Having the right team in place is crucial. A good property manager can help oversee tenants and prevent many common issues. The stigma around Section 8 tenants damaging properties is often misplaced—it’s not about how they pay rent, but rather their behavior as renters. Proper tenant screening is essential, whether they’re on Section 8 or paying cash.


 Very good point, I have seen some people recommend you or the property management company actually visiting the tenant in their current home to see how they take care of it.

Post: Buying First Rental Property Out of State

Cole JenningsPosted
  • New to Real Estate
  • Clifton, NJ
  • Posts 16
  • Votes 10
Quote from @Matthew Crivelli:
Quote from @Cole Jennings:

I am new to real estate investing and I am planning on buying a 100k house in the Cleveland area and renting out to section 8. I don't live in Ohio so I would be an out of state investor. The market around where I live is too expensive for me at the moment. Just want some advice on whether this is a good idea for a first-time investor or if I should take a different direction.

I personally think Cleveland OH is a tough market for out of state investors. I've seen local wholesalers and property mangers try to take advantage of people out of state. You really need to go to Cleveland, look at the property / neighborhood, do your own inspections, etc. I have also seen section 8 tenants completely DESTROY rental properties. If you are trying to buy c class rentals 6 hours away, you will run into issues. How much cashflow will you make if you have to renovate the entire interior every 5 years?   

 Thanks for your reply, I am definitely going to be careful and take my time finding the right people, especially the tenants. 

Post: Buying First Rental Property Out of State

Cole JenningsPosted
  • New to Real Estate
  • Clifton, NJ
  • Posts 16
  • Votes 10
Quote from @Bailey Coleman:

Ohio is a great market to start in . You need a good property management company and boots on the ground to manage your rental since your out of state. I can help with a referral if needed . You also need to figure out if you using financing or buying cash. If you using financing then you need to reach out to a lender to see if you qualify 

I have been looking around for property management companies, especially ones that are willing to work with section 8 and have experience with the inspections. I would be happy to look at your referral. I am planning to finance so I am also looking at local lenders.

Thanks

Post: Buying First Rental Property Out of State

Cole JenningsPosted
  • New to Real Estate
  • Clifton, NJ
  • Posts 16
  • Votes 10

I am new to real estate investing and I am planning on buying a 100k house in the Cleveland area and renting out to section 8. I don't live in Ohio so I would be an out of state investor. The market around where I live is too expensive for me at the moment. Just want some advice on whether this is a good idea for a first-time investor or if I should take a different direction.