All Forum Posts by: Emily Smith

Great question and I'd like to hear other investors' input on this as well. 

My thoughts on renting by room closer to Arlington would be that you could most likely pull a slightly higher rent since any difference would be split between the tenants and not as impactful to them individually. It may be easier to find tenants as well if you're not planning on using a third party.

As for renting to a family in the suburbs, there is obviously a general movement away from the city that could drive demand for those areas long-term. Another perk of renting to families vice single professionals in their 20s (generic Arlington demographic) is that they will generally treat your property better, and are likely to give you much lower turnover rates. Also, you are more likely to get tenants that are open to rent-to-own options if you're looking a little further out from the city. I would definitely look into this strategy if you haven't already! It's one that works well for our area, especially on the properties in A/B suburban neighborhoods.

@Emily Howlett All great points to consider. The costs of maintaining the license are the biggest caveat that I'm looking at currently - trying to poll around my area and see what the average costs are. As far as extra restrictions for licensed agents, what issues have you run into?

@Brandon DeVega Thank you for the recommendation! I'll look into Real Estate U

Great, thank you both for your input! As far as timeline of getting my license, would you say I'd benefit in pursuing that sooner rather than later, or should I wait until I have my first property under my belt?

I've looked into Real Estate Express and seems like a good option. Did you do the "Basics" package?

Hi all! I’m relatively new at this, have been doing tons of learning and saving and am getting myself ready for my first deal.

Going all-in and committing to REI so my question is: about how long does it take to study for the real estate exam (I'm in northern VA and would be looking to purchase here)? Thoughts on getting my license now or waiting until I have more time/a property or two under my belt before pursuing that?