All Forum Posts by: Griffin Pratt

Hey Cole, agent in Tampa/St. Petersburg, FL here. Would love to connect and see where we can help on another!

Hey Connor,

I'm an agent currently buying property in the same asset class. I just sent you a PM so feel free to reach out and talk more!

Hey Brian, I'm an agent down here in Tampa currently investing in similar assets. Let me know if you'd like to connect and talk shop about the Tampa market!

First of all, congratulations on your first rental property! Also, super awesome of your parents to help you out on the first prop. In order to answer your question I'd need to understand your longer-term plan. If you anticipate refinancing to a lower rate soon, say 3-5yr, I'd put it toward the down payment as you'll want more equity in the home when you refi, you'll likely spend more than 5k on refi costs, and your interest rate will be lower anyways. If you don't plan to refi or are looking at a longer timeline before you do (5yr+) it may make more sense to buydown the rate and give yourself an extra $85 of cashflow that can serve as your reserves fund.

Regardless both options only stand to benefit you, only question is which better fits into YOUR plan.

Hey Dustin,

I'm local to and have worked with some investors in the Sarasota/Bradenton area. I just shot you a message, and would love to connect to see how we can bring value to your search!

Tampa has good opportunity for cashflow with HIGH appreciation potential in the next 5-10yr. Feel free to reach out if you'd like to discuss more in depth as to why.

Ocala has plenty of good cashflow opportunity and no shortage of supply, should see some significant growth in the next few years due to its high traffic location and increasing industry.

Hey Michael,

The feelings you're experiencing are not at all uncommon to first-time investors. I'd be happy to connect and see if I can add value to your situation and get you over that hurdle to your first investment property!

Let me know, 

Griffin

Hey Connor,

As you already know, some markets work better than others for different investment strategies. When it comes to long-distance investing, prior to identifying the MARKET you want to invest in, should be IDing what TYPE of investment property you're searching for (ie. LTR vs. STR, fix n' flip, BRRRR, single-family vs. multi-family, price range, etc.). Once you've answered that question, its much easier to choose a market that better supports that investment type.

Assuming you've already ID'd your investment strategy & market, the next step would be to connect with an agent in said market to help find what you're looking for. As an agent myself, I can say a buyer that does their homework and brings a plan to the table is a much more motivating client to work with. In addition to helping you find and purchase your investment prop, a good agent will often have recommendations for local contractors, property managers, etc to help you with the rehab and managment of your property, should you need it. I'd recommend using the "Find an agent tool" on bigger pockets or reaching out via the forums to find an investment friendly agent in your desired market.

Hope that helps and if you have any other questions, my door is always open!

Griffin

 Hey Janel,

I am also considering signing up with this program in St. Pete. How have things been going for you so far?

Griffin

I am looking for recommendations to an investment focused brokerage in St. Petersburg that will provide leads to a part-time agent. 

I've spent the past 6 months operating as a part-time agent alongside my 9-5. I've learned a lot and know this market like the back of my hand. My aim in finding a new brokerage is to increase my production as I currently waste a large chunk of time digging through lowsy, self-generated leads. 

I am looking for a local brokerage that can offer a referral type partnership with reputable leads in exchange for a fee/commission % but no full-time commitment. (My job is flexible & allows me to take calls, do showings, and cater to my clients needs, which is why I wish to maintain the position and consistent income.)

If anyone works for, with, or recommends a brokerage that would be open to this kind of partnership, please let me know! 

Griffin