All Forum Posts by: Patricia Joseph

@Aaron Fox This is such a timely post, since I just passed the GA state exam. Initially, I didn't think I had the time to get my license, while working a full-time job. But, I devoted my every weekend to studying for the exam. Although, it may have taken me a little longer to get through the course, I managed to finish -- now, it's behind me. I'm hoping that my license will help me in earning some commissions to buy rental properties -- which is why I wanted my license in the first place.

@Dawn Brenengen as a tech professional, I've always been intrigued by the "Research Triangle Park", since this area is known as one of the best places for tech jobs. It's interesting to read of so many major tech companies moving to this area, which sounds perfect for folks looking for good, paying jobs and affordable housing.

@Alex Franks if I went from paying 16k to 1200-1400 in property taxes, like your dad, I would be chuckling too!

@Aaron Vergason you make some good points on investing local. My husband and I are still struggling with the decision to invest local, or buy turnkey in other markets. Hopefully, we'll decide by the time we've saved enough money. In the meantime, we're just taking our time to become more educated.

Our list of top 3 markets include: Atlanta (where we live -- didn't see Atlanta on the list of winning or losing cities), Hammond, IN (close to Chicago, but landlord-friendly), and Jacksonville, Fl.

I wasn't surprised about Florida. I've been reading articles and attending webinars on this market; particularly, Jacksonville -- which I have on my list of top 3 markets to invest. I was surprised to see Raleigh, NC on the list. @John P. the article does list the 10 cities that are losing the most residents, and New York is #1.

A recent article from Realtor.com lists the cities where Americans are moving. I thought it was worth sharing. Are you investing in these areas? As a new investor, I would love to hear why you chose a specific area? Below is the list and link to article:

http://www.realtor.com/news/trends/new-hot-spots-where-americans-are-moving/?identityID=55f6f527c430877f11000146&MID=2016_0527_WeeklyNL&RID=3427123222&cid=eml-2016-0527-WeeklyNL-blog_1_americansmoving-blogs_trends

1. Tampa, FL
2. Jacksonville, FL
3. Charlotte, NC
4. San Antonio, TX
5. Austin, TX
6. Las Vegas, NV
7. Orlando, FL
8. Nashville, TN
9. Raleigh, NC
10. Portland, OR

Thanks @Brian Eastman that's good info to know!

@Brian Eastman yes, I understand that the loan from the 401k has to be repaid, which we will repay through payroll deduction. Are you saying that the loan proceeds can't be used to fund the self-directed 401k?

@Raj Vachani very interesting that you mentioned with a self directed 401k you don't need a custodian and have full check writing authority. Can you provide more info? Is it possible to take a loan from an employer 401k and place those funds into a self-directed 401k?

I wish more investors would post their experiences, good or bad; particularly, with turnkey providers. There's nothing like reading a first-hand account of what other investors have experienced: priceless info! 

@Michael L. Thanks for sharing your experience with buying properties from Elite, as my husband and I are considering buying in Chicago. As a new investor, this info is really helpful!