Since you're open to markets beyond NYC, you might want to connect with local investor meetups or REI groups in those areas to build relationships with agents, wholesalers, and lenders who understand the nuances of each market.If you're looking to break out of analysis paralysis, maybe start by narrowing down one or two target markets and running numbers on actual deals.

If not, I’d encourage you to make a few calls—you’ll not only learn about the programs firsthand, but you’ll also build relationships with lenders who could be valuable for future deals.As Dale Carnegie said, "Knowledge isn’t power until it is applied."

have you thought about new builds?

Starting with an owner-occupied duplex is a smart way to build equity and gain experience.

Yes you partner with them on the individual deal but you get the reps in to become better at watching a deal from start to finish. 

Apartment buildings, assisted living facilities, self storage, restaurants... 

Just trying to get started and although there is plenty of information out there, I thought the value was in getting the first deal with them and then learn how to replicate it.

Excellent start. 

I think we are competitively priced, so most of out tenants have been renewing, but we plan to test higher rents in 2025  for our larger apartment buildings to account for the steep increase in insurance prices.There have been A LOT of new apartment buildings put up recently in the Cedar Rapids metro area, so depending on the class of tenant you have, maybe that could account for some of softening you are seeing? 

@Asseille OdelCFRI.netCheck out the calendar of events and start volunteering - it’s the best way to meet people there.