Right now, I’m in full research and networking mode—learning about Milwaukee’s neighborhoods, connecting with local investors, and exploring my first investment.

Check out the Events and Meet Ups section for local events in your area.

As for finding a contractor, asking local investors for recommendations is a great start.

Hi does anyone have experience with providing direct STR stays (so not through Airbnb or VRBO) and charging, collecting, and remitting the local Chicago hotel tax?

I am new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.

I also did a local renovation in 2022 bringing it up code.

@Audrey Sommer I prefer investing in my local market (Snohomish County).

If you wish to network or ask specific questions about your local market, you can go to your local real estate forum and discuss with investors from your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86-local-real-estate-networking 5.

Wrapping 3 properties into one blanket loan shouldn't be a problem, save these are sitting on any sizeable acreage.You might get lucky and find a unicorn local bank or credit union that would consider that kind of leverage, but I would say overall, those terms are very unrealistic.Cheers!

Here are additional comments:1) Buying out of state removes any local knowledge you have from assisting in your success, including knowing areas, people and costs. - We always recommend buying your first rental locally if possible and DIY managing to learn as much as possible before investing OOS.2) Lots of crooks and incompetents in the PMC world:( They both cost you money.- As already stated, you'll have a small portfolio.