I live in the Milwaukee area and want to get started investing locally but eventually want to branch out into other cities and states.

@Jerry Zigounakisi'd pick a market close to you, or one you have strong ties in, rather than trying to get to one via math.can you invest where you live, or 1-2 hours from where you live, or where you like to vacation, or where you went to college, or where you plan to move someday?

You do not have to live in the home in order to do that!

Hi All, I have an investment property in NJ that was my second home when I lived in PA.

I live in El Paso, TX and would like to invest close to home first before venturing in long-distance.

I need to find a place to live and I don't know what to do. 

The lighting is a little dark in the picture but this will be a lovely/bright kitchen and living room for our next resident.

When your tenant stops paying and communicating, who will knock on the door to see if they still live there?

I'd highly recommend house hacking in your local market since you're in one of the highest cost of living areas in the US, especially if you're renting currently and planning on staying in the area for 5-10 years.It sounds sexy to go out and invest out of state for your first property.

Not only does it have excellent potential as a house hack, but it also offers significant upside for a live-in flip.