I wouldn't recommend trying to do something like this right off the bat, I think you need to get into the game and really know what you are doing before taking on that level of risk.Happy to chat more over a phone call or direct message if you want more insights or have more specific questions!

I recommend you contact Capital Concepts out of Las Colinas.

Those buying close to the city are either breaking even or taking negative cashflow and banking on appreciation (or buying all cash and parking money, ha).If you do consider Lowell, I'd also recommend you check out the Fitchburg/Leominster area as well.

We don’t know any PMCs to recommend in the area mentioned, but since selecting the wrong PMC is usually more harmful than selecting a bad tenant, you might want to read our series about “How to Screen a PMC Better than a Tenant”:https://www.biggerpockets.com/member-blogs/3094/91877-how-to-screen-a-pmc-better-than-a-tenant-part-1-services-and-processesWe recommend you get management contracts from several PMCs and compare the services they cover and, more importantly, what they each DO NOT cover.

I'm exploring this as a potential investment and would love to hear from anyone with experience buying in JC.I'm looking for recommendations on good areas to invest in.

Also, what would you recommend about getting a property to fix and flip or rent?

I would recommend finding an investor friendly agent in the area you are wanting to invest to be your boots on the ground.

@Gregory SchwartzIf you're not worried about Property Management tracking, and more so looking to keep tabs on your personal/business progress, I highly recommend Monday.com. 

I recommend just getting to work with someone who has a strong knowledge of the investment space and can connect you with multiple options.

Wife and I both have an 800 credit score and plenty of income with a 19% DTI ratio. 2) Do you recommend that as a first timer I actually do go with a higher down payment product as I learn?