I am still a novice but I really like the idea of Chattanooga for cash flowing rentals.

. :) You are right, shows like that don't show the whole picture, and people who do no research into how to properly invest in real estate wind up in a mess.But also for novices who might be reading this post, Trademark does volume...which is how they make their money.

The disadvantage I see with this method are that I would not actually own the house I live in, and I would like to own my residence sooner than later; by waiting, my local market prices may become even more inflated than they are now, but of course there is no telling, or I could bank on appreciation in 1].I've also considered the REO route of buying cheap and investing a large amount in renovations, but I feel that this may be a risky strategy for a novice such as myself.

I can bring coffee or 5 hour energy :) I want to work with someone who knows what they are looking for and I want to be able to practice my skills with someone who isn't a novice. 

Hello BP, My name is Shaun, I am a novice investor here in East ATL.

Left me holding two vacant units I gave that I gave notice to and moved on before deal fell apart, now thanks to novice buyer I'm left holding the bag.I have a new buyer but also a new prospective tenant ready to move in Saturday.

My impression, as a novice, is that the BIG money can be made in appreciation....but it's a matter of risk/reward, as the large appreciation may not occur. 

I've seen many blatant attempts here to lure in novice investors and I feel like I can never say anything for fear of "rocking the boat".

Thanks, Bro.If YOU are a Pro, i`d rather be a Bro, Bro :) You must have a lot of free time on your hands (probably because all the "retail buyers and novice investors ruined your business").

One thing I have experienced is, the RE Investing business is so vast, and there are so many niches and strategies, it is overwhelming to anyone who is a novice.