All Forum Posts by: David Spencer

Thanks for the responses everyone. I also spoke with some neighbors in RB/RV and they said the same thing.

Regarding shoreline getting a light rail station in 6 years or so. If I get a house within walking range of the station would you expect an increase in the house's value once the station opens? 

Hi There,

I am looking to by my first house. I will likely live there for a few years, and then keep it as a rental property. At the moment my price range is around 500k. After checking out houses all over Seattle I've found houses that interest me in Shoreline, West Seattle, and Rainier Valley.

I am in my late 20's and work in Fremont, but work location isn't a huge factor for me since I only commute a couple days a week. Ideally I will find a place that will allow me to have a roommate to help pay the mortgage. I also have a dog, so a small fenced yard is a requirement.

In terms of looking at the locations as a rental investment, what area would you pick? Shoreline has the link light rail coming in a few years, but Shoreline is very north, doesn't feel like being in a city. West Seattle is also getting light rail, but that is more than a decade away. Rainier valley has light rail, but the neighborhoods are a bit of an eye sore.

Obviously the house/neighborhood would make a big difference, but based on the locations alone, do you guys have any recommendations/advice?

Thanks!

@Patrick Britton I've considered it but ultimately I don't know how much time I will spend in Bellingham. I work in Seattle and there aren't many job options for me in Bham. This thread has helped me come to the conclusion that I should probably buy the property as an investment property and not attempt to live in it initially. Thanks for your help!

Thanks @Jake Alger, that is very good to know and the exact type of information I was looking for. I'm just getting started on my research, but I may take you up on the offer to connect in the near future. Thanks!

@Bjorn Ahlblad lol seriously. Thanks for your help and guidance!

@Bjorn Ahlblad thanks! Glad to hear there are no restrictions with the mortgage. I noticed you are from WA as well. I am currently renting in Seattle but considering buying an investment property in Bellingham near WWU or Whatcom commjnity college. I'm hesistant to drop a serious chunk of change on a Seattle property so that's why I was considering Bellingham. I'd be looking for a cheaper property for my first investment (300k). I was thinking it would help keep my stress levels down compared to a larger investment. Does this sound like an okay plan?

Hi There,

I am looking to buy my first house as an investment property. In the near future I may do some long term traveling away from home. Am I able to buy a house to live in it short term (few months maybe), and then later rent it out as an investment while I travel? (I would go through a property management company). Is there any mortgage fine print I should be aware of?

Thanks in advance!