I am an agent and investor in the East Texas area.

I have no interest, and neither will a majority of investors. 

@Jonathan Grzeszczyk - I'm a flipper, investor and property management company owner in CT. 

Hey @Aaron Price, I think the best way you can get started in real estate is to reach out to local investor-friendly agents in your market.

College rentals are relatively expensive and come with their own unique challenges:1) Roommates not getting along2) No one cleaning or maintaining the property3) Weekend party damages4) Etc...While you are considering what to invest in, recommend you also figure out the property Class you want to invest in.Why is Property Class so important for investors to understand and apply in their investing strategies?

A prudent investor doesn't seek quick riches through shortcuts.

Have never missed a payment to investors.

In our experience, a well-vetted VA can help streamline deal sourcing, initial due diligence, and administrative tasks—allowing investors to focus on strategy and decision-making.In our team, we take pride in hiring professionals who truly understand the nuances of the industry.

Since your property has high resale potential, some lenders may be willing to work with you.Cash-Out Refinance – If you’re open to refinancing, you could take out a new mortgage for a portion of the home’s value (say, 60-70% of the $500K), and use the cash difference for renovations.Personal Loan – If you have good credit, you might qualify for a personal loan for part of the rehab costs, though interest rates are typically higher than secured loans.Partner with an Investor – Given the potential profit, you may be able to find a real estate investor or contractor willing to finance the rehab in exchange for a share of the profits upon sale.Your best option depends on your financial standing, timeline, and risk tolerance.

Out-of-state investing in cash-flow markets or partnering with experienced investors for passive returns are also great ways to put your capital to work.