All Forum Posts by: Guadalupe Batana

Yes, there are definitely 15% down options available for investment property purchases! Both Conventional loans and DSCR loans can offer this flexibility, depending on the specific scenario and borrower qualifications.

Hi Shea, congratulations on starting your investment journey so early! Owning a duplex at 20 is a huge accomplishment, and it’s inspiring to see you’re already planning your next move.

From my perspective, real estate investing is a long-term game focused on building equity, paying down debt, and maintaining stability over chasing short-term cash flow. Here are a few strategies I recommend for scaling your portfolio:

1. Leverage What You Have:
   Consider using the equity in your duplex to help fund your next property. A cash-out refinance or home equity line of credit (HELOC) can be powerful tools to keep your momentum going.
2. Focus on Stability:
   Look for investments in areas with strong job markets, population growth, and consistent rental demand. Prioritize deals that offer steady long-term returns over ones that seem too good to be true.
3. DSCR Loans for Growth:
   Debt Service Coverage Ratio (DSCR) loans can be a game-changer for investors who want to scale. These loans are based on a property's rental income rather than your personal income, making it easier to qualify as you expand your portfolio.
4. Networking and Mentorship:
   You’re already off to a great start by reaching out here! Connecting with experienced investors or joining local real estate groups can provide valuable insights and help you avoid costly mistakes.

The best area for you to invest in really depends on your goals and the type of investing you're interested in pursuing. If you're looking for strong cash flow, the Midwest—places like Ohio or Detroit—can be great options due to lower property prices and higher rent-to-price ratios.

On the other hand, higher appreciation markets, such as California, come with higher entry costs but often provide significant equity growth, even in the short term, if you buy wisely.

If you're considering short-term rentals (STRs), your focus should be on factors like occupancy rates, average nightly rates, and regulations in the area. Resort and vacation destinations tend to perform well, but it’s critical to research local laws and trends to ensure the property aligns with your financial goals.

What type of investing are you leaning toward?

Congratulations on your recent marriage and for taking the exciting step into the world of real estate! It sounds like you have an incredible future ahead. As someone living in Southern California, I can definitely relate to the challenges of navigating expensive markets. The good news is that real estate offers countless opportunities, even in higher-cost areas, to build wealth and achieve your goals.

 Your willingness to learn will help you in becoming a GREAT agent! 
I suggest that you make it a point of finding a good lender, not just someone who can do the job of helping your clients buy their home but someone who is willing to teach you. Make a point out of finding a trustworthy lender who is willing and able! You will find that lenders will reach out to you and try to ally alongside you (I know I have received a few emails and phone calls from different lenders trying to offer their services) but few are willing to 'teach' you. I can assure you that the more you learn regarding these products, the easier it is to help all of your clients. I do know of a good lender that services Alabama, so send me a message if you want me to share his name and number. It can be a lot to absorb during your first month, but I think you are off to a great start! Don't hesitate to reach out!  

Learning about different types of loans is always a smart move, especially as an agent. Gaining knowledge about investor loans, like DSCR loans, can be particularly beneficial. This will help you understand the qualifying requirements, key factors to consider when purchasing, and how to assess whether a property might be a good investment at first glance. While this insight is valuable, it's important to remember that thorough analysis is always crucial before making any final decisions.

 If down payment is your one issue with qualifying there are down payment assistance programs available. Getting into the house and house hacking at the very least (when done correctly) puts you in a better position to save more aggressively especially if your entire housing payment is covered. It's case by case whether it is the right decision for you but down payment shouldn't be the hindrance if it's right for you.

As both a real estate and mortgage brokerage, we streamline the process, from finding incredible deals to securing optimal financing solutions. Our team is uniquely positioned to help investors succeed, combining personal investing experience with decades of representing clients in real estate and mortgage transactions.

One of the most impactful developments in our area is the massive project underway with BNSF Railway. This initiative is expected to create up to 20,000 indirect jobs and bring significant economic growth, infrastructure improvements, and new opportunities to the region.

Projects like this often drive increased demand for housing—both rental and owner-occupied—since more businesses and employees will be drawn to the area. For real estate investors, this presents a prime opportunity to capitalize on the anticipated appreciation and higher rental demand in key locations.

Our team is closely monitoring these developments to help our clients secure high-potential properties in these growing markets. If you’re looking to tap into these exciting opportunities, let’s connect!

Our team is made up of:

Guadalupe Batana - Agent

Paul Haefele - Lender

Kenneth Courtney - Broker

BIG Project Link

I don't think it would be a bad idea but I would personally keep the property that you know for sure is performing well. Maybe a HELOC/Cash out refinance would be better, then you could buy 2-3 properties as well without getting rid of the "guarantee" that you already have.

I always lean toward holding onto a property that's appreciating, especially when it's tied to such favorable loan terms. A HELOC can be a great option if you're looking to leverage your equity for new investments. If cash flow is your primary goal, exploring opportunities in the Midwest can make a lot of sense due to lower entry costs and strong rental demand.

That said, I’d caution against focusing too heavily on cash flow alone. While it’s important, appreciation is often where the real wealth is built, especially when it comes to scaling and expanding your portfolio. Properties that grow significantly in value provide the equity and leverage needed for future investments, which can multiply your returns over time. Balancing both cash flow and appreciation is key to long-term success.