All Forum Posts by: Simon Ashbaugh

Hey Brittany, welcome to BP! I highly suggest that you try to attend your local REI networking groups and meetups. Connect with as many real estate investors as you can. You can also consult with lenders, brokers and ask them for suggestions on who might be a good real estate mentor and most will be able to provide one. Lastly, try to think of different ways you can add value to that person. What are your strengths? For example, are you experienced in social media marketing? Could you offer a mentor some tips? This way it's not just a one way street. All the best!

Hey Matt, welcome to BP! OOS investing can be a great way to diversify your portfolio but having a solid strategy is key. Figure out what you're aiming for. Are you looking for steady rental income or long-term appreciation? Once you know your goals, you can pick a market that fits the bill. Also, since you'll be managing the properties remotely, building a strong team is important. Find a local agent who's familiar with your target market and a property manager to handle the day-to-day operation. Then, find a mentor doing what you want to do. You could start your search by reaching out to lenders, brokers or other investors you meet at REI meetups. Most will be able to provide one. All the best!

Quote from @Shrijan Neupane:

Hello BiggerPockets Community!

I'm thrilled to be part of this elite group of real estate enthusiasts. My name is Shrijan Neupane, and I am an employed nine-by-fiver determined to get into real estate investment. Even though I have no experience other than renting out and managing my first primary home, my interest in real estate pushes me to educate myself upon this topic.

With a very high barrier to entry where I live in Northern Virginia, especially for first-time investors just starting out with small budgets, that is why I have been focusing on out-of-state investing in real estate and also have been reading a lot about the BRRRR strategy. I am actively researching markets like Cleveland and Columbus, but I remain very open to other opportunities.

My goals are to successfully fund and execute a BRRRR project, build a team of veteran investors and mentors, and continue learning to attain financial freedom through real estate.

Excited to connect with seasoned investors and mentors. Feel free to reach out if you have thoughts, guidance, or opportunities for BRRRR projects or out-of-state investing. Let's stay connected and grow in this real estate investment journey together!

Thank you, and I am excited to be part of this wonderful community!

Hey Shrijan, welcome to BP! Having a strong foundation is important especially when investing out of state. It's about researching and networking effectively but most importantly, building relationships with local experts like property managers, contractors, and real estate agents.

The BRRRR strategy can be profitable but it relies heavily on trustworthy partners. For beginners, it's wise to start by familiarizing yourself with your chosen market and building relationships with local professionals. These connections will be crucial for your BRRRR projects down the line.

With that in mind, I recommend starting with turnkey properties or those needing minor repairs. This way, you can gain experience and build trust with local professionals while minimizing risk. Hope this helps!

I can send a couple. Let's connect!

Quote from @Steve K.:

Hi everyone,

I am looking for an investor friendly agent in the Columbus, Ohio area. Ideally has at least 5 years of experience and he/she should be able to provide references upon request. Thank you!

 Hey Steve, I would love to connect with you.

Hey Jonathan, getting your real estate license is a smart move. It will give you a strong foundation in legalities and best practices. The real estate industry can be complex but don't let it discourage you. You've already gotten your feet wet with house hacking and that's a win in my book! I agree with Drew and Kyle. Stay committed to your goals, keep learning and growing. Plus, that experience as a landlord will come in handy down the road. You're on the right track.

Hey Rusty, welcome to BiggerPockets! Check out the forums, ask questions and stay tuned to the BiggerPockets Podcast. It'll be beneficial to your learning. All the best!

Quote from @Shawnte' Grant:

Hello Bigger Pockets community! I'm Shawnte from Virginia Beach VA, passionate about real estate investing a while now. I'm particularly passionate about Real Estate investing. Looking to invest in and out of state.

Outside of real estate, I enjoy listening to audiobooks, spending time with family, building health care organizations and caring for people in my community.

Excited to learn and connect with you all!

Hey Shawnte, welcome to BiggerPockets! I recommend identifying a strategy for your real estate investments first and make sure the market you choose supports this strategy. Building your Core 4 Real Estate Team is also crucial to your success for out-of-state investing. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.

Quote from @Jeff G.:

Hey @Christian Styles, yes please!

I don't have an specific neighborhood of Cleveland in mind. To give you at least some context to work with: I can tell you I'm much more interested in multifamily than SFH. My existing portfolio definitely hews toward working poor, but in areas where the locals tend to keep their yards up and have at least a bit of self-respect. Some of my tenants are on various forms of assistance and others aren't. I don't much mind either way as long as the numbers work and the property is treated well.

I've had decent luck in West Akron — once I got through the rehab headaches — but I have no footprint in Cleveland at all. It just looks like I can command higher rents more consistently in Cleveland than Akron or Canton, hence my interest. I'm aware that might be an illusion that only exists on paper, so I want to tread carefully. Is that helpful?

Hey Jeff, places like Lakewood, Old Brooklyn, Brooklyn Centre, Edgewater, Jefferson and West Boulevard are some places that are good to explore in Cleveland. I have the city mapped out by their neighborhood classes as well. Feel free to connect.

Quote from @Reza Shisheie:

Hi I am looking for an active investment real estate agent in the Cleveland area. I am ready to shop and I need an agent who knows the hot areas for investment. 

 Hey Reza, I'd be happy to connect with you.