All Forum Posts by: Monique H.

@Clarence Johnson, I'm not a seasoned investor at all and don't know the area too well. But, Muskegon still has some great deals and there seems to be a lot of growth planned for the area. There's houses for 20-50k in what I would consider C class areas, and that's just what I am finding on my own on the MLS or Zillow. I'm sure investors with a network might be able to get houses for better prices in a bit better areas. Your Aunt probably knows what areas to avoid and which ones would be best to invest in.

Thank you all for your input!

@John Paleaz

It does have a new roof, new hot water heater, new cabinets/counters and new flooring (the flooring doesn't look like it would last one tenant, though!). It was a quick remodel.

Do you have a problem finding good tenants in that area?

My husband and I are looking at a house in the East Muskegon neighborhood. Anyone have experience in that area? The realtor suggested we could get $850/month in rent for a 2 bed, 1 bath, however, my research suggests more like $650-750. It's pretty close to the Heights. This would be our first rental property and cash flow would likely be around $300-400/month.  

Thank you @Tim Vandentoorn!

@Jarred Ross, thank you! We are blessed to have found Dave Ramsey and to work his steps to get out of debt! But, you are right, it's about balance. I have read Rich Dad, Poor Dad and did gain some good ideas from that and it definitely was the beginning of broadening my investing views. 

@Jacques Cyr, thank you for that info. Right now the only websites I'm using are Zillow, the MLS and now and again I go onto the GIS map to view owners. Oh, and Facebook housing groups to see what kind of rentals people are looking for and what houses show the most interest. I have not actually done a full analysis on a property besides " if I bought it for X and rented it for X and paid X for expenses, I'd have X amount a month in cash flow". I'm actually eyeing the Muskegon area since it's a bit closer to home for me and I like what I'm hearing about it (for the most part) and I believe our money can go further there. I'm kind of kicking myself for not buying our personal residence in Muskegon, as we live in Spring Lake, but my kids don't utilize the school district right now. I could have gotten a lot more house for less and had more cash flow to save. But, I digress... I love the Lakeshore and hope to invest in it!

@Tyler Hall, so glad to see so many from the Grand Rapids area! And a Dave fan!

I am trying to think beyond the Dave Ramsey mindset for real estate investing, as he is adamantly against lease options. However, after listening to some RPOA podcasts with people who have either purchased or sold that way, it intrigued me and I do need to learn more about it. Thank you! 

I have contemplated joining the RPOA and actually taking some of the classes they offer, but have not thought to attend any meetup groups. Thank you for your comment! 

Hello all,

I am a newbie and I have been interested in real estate investing for a while and decided that I need to get more serious about it! I do not want to be hindered by analysis paralysis.

I live west of Grand Rapids, Michigan and my husband and I are interested in buy-and-hold properties. We're currently saving for a down-payment or cash buy and are open to single or multi-family homes. We are feeling a bit cautious going into debt (we followed Dave Ramsey to get out of debt); however, we believe real estate will be a great investment.

I'm excited to read and learn from this community!