All Forum Posts by: Simon Ashbaugh

Hey Veronica, welcome to BiggerPockets! This is the perfect place to start your networking and learning real estate. I highly recommend for you to start watching the BiggerPockets Podcast if you haven't done so already. Identify a strategy and make sure it aligns with your goals. Expand your network and explore all social media events and REI meetups. Make sure to connect with the local lenders and brokers too as they are beneficial to have on your journey. All the best!

Hey @Khang Vang, It's great to hear that you're ready to start your journey with real estate. Starting fresh is a great position to be in and your enthusiasm is key. Many successful investors began with little to no experience so you're in good company. I recommend that you start by identifying a strategy you wish to pursue, choose a market that aligns with it, and establish your Core 4.

The main challenge I observed is that individuals often lack a clear end goal or strategy, or they select a market that doesn't align with it. Also, be sure to connect with the local lenders and brokers, they can be valuable allies in achieving your real estate goals. Hope this helps!

Hey there @Mason Green, welcome to BP! Leveraging an FHA loan is a smart move for young investors like you looking to house hack. The perk of a lower down payment requirement is beneficial for those starting with limited capital. Just remember though that with an FHA loan, there's a requirement to live in the property for a certain period so ensure that this aligns with your plans.

Consider focusing on a market that boasts a robust job market, affordability, and economic development. It's also vital to understand the local regulations and zoning laws as this knowledge is crucial for a successful venture.

Given your location in the Midwest, try taking a closer look at cities like Cleveland and Columbus. These cities offer favorable conditions where your financial resources can stretch further, allowing you to build a diverse multifamily portfolio and establish a steady income stream. Conduct thorough research, stay well-informed and base your decisions on your goals and risk tolerance. If you need more guidance or have specific questions, feel free to reach out. I'm happy to connect and help out.

Hey Miguel, I recommend exploring Cleveland for your investment goals. The city's robust rental market driven by a growing population, 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 Matthew, welcome to BP! You've landed in the perfect spot to kickstart your real estate journey. I suggest for you to explore social media events and attend your local REI meetups. Seek advice from lenders and brokers on finding a suitable real estate mentor, you'd be surprised by how many they can provide. Consider how you can add value to the mentor-mentee relationship by leveraging your strengths and keep in mind though that building your network takes time and consistency. Be real in your interactions, share your goals and don't be shy about giving back. Relationships are a two-way street and the more you invest in others, the more likely you'll get valuable insights and support in return. Hope this helps!

Hey Arhur, welcome to BiggerPockets! Would love to connect with you.

Hey Travis, welcome to BP! This is the perfect place to start learning and building connections for your real estate goals. Congratulations on completing the BRRRR invest academy btw and also by having your first child man. I recommend that you attend local REI networking groups and meetups to connect with fellow real estate investors, also seek advice from lenders and brokers on finding a suitable real estate mentor. Expand your network and explore social media events, these are proven to be beneficial in achieving your real estate goals. Happy to connect and help out.

Hey Colby, HH is one of the most effective strategies you can take for your real estate goals. It makes it easy for investors to acquire a property while having tenants pay half of the mortgage but it's important to have a long-term plan in place.

For starters, consider the following:
1. Work on your numbers - calculate potential cash flow and ROI. Factor in all your expenses such as property taxes, insurance, repairs, maintenance, repairs and potential rents.
2. The type of the property you choose will definitely be an advantage. Choosing a triplex and fourplex is ideal but a duplex will also work out.
3. Screen your tenants properly at all times. Don't rush into things to secure your investments.

Keep in mind that a very satisfied tenant will help you generate that solid cash flow you're aiming for. Maintaining a healthy relationship with them and being a good landlord will always bear fruit so it's best to be on top of every issue that arises. Hope this helps! 

Hi @Michelle Stafford-Wirth, Welcome to BiggerPockets! You've landed in the perfect spot to kickstart your networking and learning journey. It all really comes down to what you're aiming for. The first step is to identify a strategy you'd be venturing into and choose a market that aligns with it. Also establish your Core 4. Its always beneficial to your journey real estate.

The main challenge I observed is that individuals often lack a clear end goal or strategy or they select a market that doesn't align with their chosen strategy. Hope this helps! Happy to connect and help out whenever I can.

Hey Joshua, welcome to BiggerPockets. This is the perfect place to start learning and building connections for your real estate goals. Try to attend your local REI networking groups and meetups to connect with fellow real estate investors. Lenders and brokers can also help out in finding a suitable real estate mentor so feel free to ask whenever an opportunity comes. Building your network takes time and consistency so be real in your interactions, share your goals and don't be shy about giving back. Its always a two-way street. Hope this helps.