All Forum Posts by: Simon Ashbaugh

Hey Duarte, the drop in the unemployment rate from 3.9% to 3.1% is a positive sign. It means more people are finding employment and it opens up the possibility of higher cash flow in the local economy. If you're interested in diving deeper, let's connect! I'm happy to chat and answer any questions you might have.

Hey Robert, welcome to BiggerPockets! You'd be surprised to know that Cleveland has the means to be able to provide you with a good amount of Cashflow. The city's rental market is driven by a growing population and it ensures a steady income stream. Additionally, with affordability and a median home price below the national average, Cleveland stands out as an attractive option for investors seeking a promising return. 

Hi Amanda, welcome to BiggerPockets! You've landed in the perfect spot to kickstart your networking and learning journey.

Living there has pros (equity building, potential appreciation) and cons (delayed rental income, tied-up capital). I suggest that you try to assess your risk tolerance before making a final decision. While a primary residence builds equity, it may limit investments in higher-yielding assets.

For some, exploring out-of-state options with higher rental yields could be an additional strategy to consider, you would have to be prepared and establish your Core 4 if you were to do so. Ultimately, the best path depends on your goals and risk tolerance. 

If you're looking for other markets to explore, Cleveland OH would be an interesting place to check out. It's been consistent in providing a healthy cashflow with average rental yields exceeding 8% and property values appreciating steadily over the past few years. This is due to factors like a strong job market and a growing economy. Hope this helps!

Hey Harneet, welcome to BiggerPockets! Columbus is looking up whether you're into A, B, or C areas, there's no bad spot to consider. Here's a quick rundown of some areas you might find interesting:

High Rental Demand:

1. Franklinton and Weinland Park: These urban neighborhoods are booming with investments and people. Rentals are sought after.
2. Clintonville: A lively neighborhood near Ohio State University, it's great for rentals. You might find budget-friendly options like smaller homes or duplexes.
3. South Linden: Under revitalization, this area is catching the eye of young professionals. Rentals are promising.

Hybrid Potential:

1. Grove City: A growing suburb with a mix of affordability, demand, and potential appreciation.
2. Westerville: A well-established suburb with good schools and job opportunities. Rentals are steady, and there's decent potential for appreciation.
3. Reynoldsburg: This suburban community has a mix of housing, good schools, and a growing population. Rental demand and appreciation potential are both moderate.

In a nutshell, Columbus is on the up and each area has something good to offer. Hope this helps!

Hi Will, welcome to the BiggerPockets community! It's great to hear about your interest in real estate. Continue tuning in to the BiggerPockets Podcast and connect with the local lenders and brokers. Attend your local REI meetups to build up a strong network and feel free to reach out and connect with everyone in the community. It will be beneficial to achieving your goals. All the best!

Hey Chungho, I've got a list of PMs and Contractors as well as Lenders who've been a big help for my investors when acquiring properties. Let's connect and I'll introduce you to my go to.

Hi Ifey, welcome to BiggerPockets! In addition to Noah's suggestions, I highly recommend seeking out a mentor who has experience with the specific real estate strategy you're pursuing. Having a mentor aligning with your goals can provide invaluable guidance. Reach out to agents, lenders and brokers for advice on finding a suitable mentor in the real estate industry. Most will be able to recommend one.

Consider how you can contribute to the mentor-mentee relationship by leveraging your strengths. Building a network takes time and consistency, so be genuine in your interactions. Share your goals openly and don't hesitate to give back. Remember, relationships are a two-way street and the more you invest in others, the more likely you'll receive valuable insights and support in return. Hope this helps!

Hey Bryant, it really comes down to what you're aiming for. Take a closer look at Cleveland and Columbus for investment opportunities. In these cities, your financial resources will go a long way enabling you to assemble a diverse multifamily portfolio and initiate a steady stream of income.

Hey Mike, whether or not Pro is a good fit for you depends on your investor type and goals. For serious investors with specific plans, Pro's time-saving features, exclusive resources, and in-depth market analysis tools could be a valuable investment. Additionally, it offers valuable resources including webinars, calculators, and ebooks. 

However, if you prefer hands-on learning and if the content's US focus doesn't align with your needs, Pro might not be the best choice. While the cost, especially for new investors is a major factor to consider. Weigh the pros and cons and consider your needs and goals before you make a decision. Hope this helps!

Hi Klesta, you've accomplished a lot in a short time. Considering your interest in a buy-and-hold strategy, a HELOC could be an option, but carefully weigh its pros and cons.

A HELOC provides flexibility for renovations and investments, allowing you to diversify with less capital. However, be cautious of potential fluctuations in monthly payments, rising interest rates, and the risk of debt accumulation.

Assess your ability to manage variable rates and potential future changes in your financial situation before making a decision.

You could start with single-family homes to utilize your existing skills and gain experience, then consider transitioning to multi-family units as your portfolio grows and you feel comfortable managing larger properties. Hope this helps!