If the mortgage on the condo costs you $2750 and you can get half that from a roommate, you guys have the ability to stay somewhere you actually desire, and you're only footing half the bill but getting all the benefits.

Though I'm new to this and still learning the ropes, I'm keen on making informed decisions and possibly partnering with an experienced investor who can guide me through the process.The property that caught my attention is currently listed at $439k on Zillow.

Additionally, consider seeking advice from experienced investors or a real estate mentor to guide you on your journey.

Most folks have the most success of FF, Airbnb/VRNO 30+ days stays, and Zillow, but Facebook and Apartments.com can work as well.

@Brooke Roundy as much as we'd like to assist another investor to succeed in our Detroit market, you're probably better off staying in the Cleveland market until you expand enough or decide to leave the Cleveland market.Also, be careful of posters here offering to assist you - many of them aren't transparent that their real motives are to sell you something!

It was always mind boggling to me lolThey could do nothing and still stay loaded...

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..Wishing you the best!

We stay away from condos. 

I def agree with you on the slum areas, I'd rather stay out of those areas too.

It might have been better if I’d have stayed full time one more year and done the refinance and bought the properties while still working but after being my own boss for 15 years right out of college before spending 14 years in a W-2 I was just done and took the plunge.