All Forum Posts by: Rafael Ramos

I’m Rafael, a business owner based in Florida, and I’m looking for some advice to craft the best real estate investment strategy. I have liquid assets and want to make smart, scalable investments that balance cash flow, appreciation, and low risk.

Goals

1. Generate consistent cash flow to diversify my income.
2. Maximize appreciation potential for long-term wealth growth.
3. Invest in areas with low crime rates to minimize risk.
4. Reduce my tax burden for 2024 with real estate purchases.

My Current Thoughts

I’m torn between two main strategies:

1. Multifamily Properties:
   • Looking at markets like Austin, Raleigh, and Tampa for 10-50 unit multifamily properties.
   • Love the scalability and centralized management, but I'm concerned about high upfront costs and competition.
2. Section 8 Housing:
   • Considering affordable markets like Memphis, Cleveland, or Indianapolis to purchase 5-10 single-family homes.
   • I like the government-backed rent stability, but managing multiple properties across different locations seems intensive.

Key Questions

1. Which strategy would you recommend for my goals and liquidity?
2. Are there better markets or hybrid approaches I should consider (e.g., smaller multifamily properties that accept Section 8 tenants)?
3. Is it better to pay cash or leverage my liquidity to maximize ROI while retaining flexibility?
4. What pitfalls or challenges should I be aware of when scaling up quickly?

Additional Details

• I’m willing to invest in out-of-state properties, though I prefer areas with good property management options.
• My primary focus is passive income, but I’m also interested in value-add opportunities.
• I want to ensure these investments provide strong tax benefits and diversify my portfolio.

I’d love to hear from experienced investors:

• What would you do in my position?
• Are there any specific markets or deals you’ve seen that align with my goals?

Looking forward to learning from this amazing community and making informed decisions!

Thanks in advance for your insights!

Yes, that’s exactly what I’m thinking—maybe even exploring Section 8 properties. I’m considering even taking the risk of investing out of state in markets with lower property taxes and insurance costs than Florida to increase cash flow. My long-term goal is to eventually own around 60 properties or more. Even if I’m only netting $500 per property, it’s still a solid way to generate passive income.

I want to be as hands-off as possible. Plus, if one area doesn’t work out, it’s probably much easier to sell a single-family home than an entire multifamily property

But again im not an expert, im actually hoping for some guidance here as well

Hello Lorenzo,

I’am with you 100%… i live in florida and been looking for multifamily all year long and the same issue here. When you do the math you actually loose if you finance. The only option is to purchase cash and at that point it makes no sense due to the fact that a HYSA account or CD can pay you the same interest rate without having to deal with property management. I am curious to see what others say, but I am completely with you on this. I even considered the option of just purchasing 1-2 single family homes per year and growing that way as there is less risks of tying up all capital in 1 property

Hey everyone,

I'm looking for some guidance on investing in real estate before the year wraps up. I'm based in the Tampa area, and my business operates in South Florida. I've been exploring options for a multifamily property, single-family homes, and even a luxury condo that could work as an Airbnb.

My primary goal is to find an investment that has good potential for profit and tax benefits for this year. I’d rather avoid anything that could become a headache down the line, even if it means a higher initial cost. I have liquid funds ready, but I want to make sure this is worth my time compared to the 5-6% cap rates I've seen on multifamily units in South Florida, which are close to what I already get from CDs and high-yield savings accounts without the hassle of property management.

I'm also hesitant to invest out of state since I'm new to real estate and don’t want to make a costly mistake. I’m here to connect and get some honest insights—not just a sales pitch—so if anyone has tips on properties or areas with good potential for appreciation and tax advantages, please let me know!

Thanks in advance for your advice and recommendations!

Hello everyone,

I'm new to real estate investing, but thanks to my logistics business, I have a substantial amount of capital to start with. I'm currently looking for a multifamily property, ideally with 10+ units and a cap rate of 7% or higher. However, finding this in Florida has been quite challenging. As a beginner, I'm hesitant to invest out of state, especially since I don’t have anyone to assist with tenant issues when they come up. I also prefer not to use a management company, as I don't want them cutting into my profits.

My long-term goal is to generate enough income to live comfortably and eventually build a real estate empire. I'd appreciate any advice on whether I should stick close to home in Florida or consider expanding to out-of-state markets.

Thanks in advance for your insights!

Hello everyone,

I'm looking for some advice on investments and would love to hear about what’s worked best for you. I currently have a solid base of liquid assets and am looking to diversify my investments.

I own two fully paid-off single-family homes in Tampa and am currently considering buying a luxury condo in Hallandale Beach for $600K. The condo has an HOA fee of around $1,100 per month and offers the option for short-term rentals. It's located at the Hyde Resort.

I’ve also been exploring multifamily properties, but prices in Miami and Broward County seem outrageous. The cap rates are only around 5-6%, which I’m already achieving with high-yield savings accounts—without the hassle of property management.

I’m wondering if it’s worth pursuing the condo in Hallandale Beach or if I should consider investing out of state. My main goals are to diversify from my current business and to invest in assets that can help lower my yearly taxes.

What would you suggest? Has anyone had success with out-of-state investments, or does it make sense to stick closer to home? Thanks in advance for your insights!