All Forum Posts by: Heather Hopkins

@Shiv Jey definitely take a look at the Raleigh-Durham numbers (aka The Triangle). There are a decent amount of duplexes and other 1-4 unit opportunities here at 1% rule. Immediate cash flow yes but also huge long term equity potential. 

Hey Eric! i just sent you a direct message. There are so many ways to answer your question...the short answer is it depends on your goals. I would say this is a prime buy and hold rental market, but there are definitely successful flippers and wholesalers here if that's what you want to do. 

Shawn Poellot welcome! My husband and I are living near downtown Raleigh right now and moved from the East Bay (Walnut Creek) last year for better quality of life but also investing opportunities. I agree that TREIA is an essential in getting to know the RE investor scene as well as entertaining the idea of some nearby markets if you're looking for buy and hold. The best thing you can really do is just get out there and start seeing stuff in person. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised by the availability of decent wholesale and off market opportunities compared to the Bay Area. You may want to come to the monthly Triangle Deal Makers (MeetUp.com) as well. Thanks for the mention Tiffany Alexy , always happy to connect with other Bay Area people!

Ryan Hopkins

Hi BP'ers,  I am in search of a HUNGRY and eager general contractor looking to expand their business in the triangle. Someone who is REI-minded is preferable as they will be working with a lot of investors, but may also be asked to handle standard remodels for homeowners and clients after closing. Must have unlimited license or actively working towards unlimited license in the state of North Carolina. Experienced in both residential and commercial and/or design-build would be a plus but not necessary. Recommendations for anyone you have worked with or even heard about would be welcome as well. Thank you in advance! Raleigh, Durham, Chapel Hill, Wake County, North Carolina, GC

Hey Chris May ! My husband and I moved from the East Bay (Walnut Creek) to Raleigh-Durham last year. There are certainly opportunities in Durham (at a much more reasonable price point!) especially for long term appreciation, but you may want to consider other markets nearby for better cash flow. Have you and your wife visited before or are you familiar with the triangle? I'd be happy to answer any questions or connect you with some folks here that may be useful. Best of luck!

My two cents is for converting the shed into a granny unit. You will likely be able to garner more rent for the detached unit and with many professionals in that area you will have no trouble renting to a qualified tenants. That being said, I do recommend permitting and like another poster before me, the biggest thing to consider will be separate meters. There has been a considerable increase in demand for homes with in-law units in the Bay Area, if you are in the position to make that happen your home will definitely stand out when you go to sell. Added bonus, you can rent it out while you live in the main house. Best of luck and can't wait to hear what route you end up taking.

Hey Matt, just wanted to say congrats on defining and going after your goals. We just moved from the east bay to Raleigh, NC to do some of the things you mentioned. I don't have any contacts for you in OH but suggest you consider joining the local REIA groups as they can get you plugged in to those markets. Best of luck!!

Hey Cody Evans ! Congrats on taking charge. I have transitioned from W2 to full time in the Bay Area. My advice is to get your license and keep your job until you have some crucial elements of your business in place. You need to build your sphere of influence and start marketing to people who already know you and trust you. Hold as many open houses as possible on the weekends and start building your pipeline. If you don't have an OH scheduled go show yourself some houses and neighborhoods on a Saturday. It's going to take you significantly longer to get going especially when you are brand new but it is possible! Network after work, market yourself every day and align yourself with a team of lenders and title reps that is stronger than you are. Work your tail off for at least a year, most importantly don't kid yourself that this will be something you can dabble in. Make sure you interview all the brokers you can, many in the area will not sign on a part time agent- find your match. If you're serious and ready to work, it will work out. Goodluck!!

Hey Brian, Call Jason at Hunter &Co. CPA's in Walnut Creek on Alpine. He handles my real estate business and many other things. He is extremely knowledgeable and reliable and can even work remotely if that's appealing to you. He's even still helping me now that I've moved across the country. Please tell him I sent you and good luck!