Even if the HOA currently allows rentals, it’s worth attending HOA meetings or reviewing their amendment history.

I would prefer 4, but I have to make the numbers make sense for me and my current financial position.I attended a webinar last night from a veteran who's been in real estate for years and understands use of the VA loan.

Maybe I’m being a little optimistic, but I feel like this is a good starting point for us.I’m not interested in investing outside of Orange County for our first property since we know the area really well.Networking:I’d also love to attend some real estate meetups around here and connect with people in the space.

And I'm looking in 3 or 4 different markets in the country.If you are able, attend a local RE meetup and connect face-to-face with agents there.

I haven't had opportunity to attend yet. 

I hadn't read the Baltimore story before...wow.Hi Sathiya, some thoughts: - attend in person meet ups in the Boston area to talk to other investors who buy locally and out of state to get their feedback and maybe consider looking within a 2 to 3 hour drive. - cash flow is difficult now with long term rentals even if you pick markets that have lower purchase prices than Boston.

I would recommend finding some local meetups to attend, and also tuning into the Straight Up Chicago Investor's Podcast.

Attend meet-ups.

Hi Alex, I believe there is a Pittsburgh group that meets regularly but I would love to attend another gathering as long as time/place works.

And when they’re uncovered the attendant publicity is huge, IF the resultant loses are large enough.