I've done a few deals on my own in and around Detroit, but I've had to dial my investing activity WAY back due  to my W2 and other personal obligations, so I'm now leaning heavily on the skills & knowledge that the Upside team brings to keep building my portfolio.This has been a fun thread to read and I love seeing the positive rapport that they've built amongst their investors.

I asked about a recent deal, and he was proud to tell me he’s just in the middle of his first.A local RE broker found an “old lady” who owned her home free and clear but with $83k in back taxes owed.

I would like to find someone that can identify things that a) don't have asbestos and thus don't need to be tested (e.g. kitchen cabinets)b) things that  90%+ likely to have asbestos and thus should be treated as having asbestos (i.e. handle with extreme caution.3) Is there some certification that I can get that states that a home is asbestos free? 

I could help explain what you are after but Biggerpockets has some really good books on the basics of real estate investing and for a few dollars you can get a ton of knowledge.

Feel free to reach out to me with any questions!

To arm you with a little more knowledge, the average 5-year rate of appreciation for Tampa is 9.2%, while the average 5-year rate of appreciation for Orlando is a little lower, at 8.56% That said, Orlando is a tourist hub, so my advice would be if you're looking for something short-term (AirBNB), finding a place in Orlando around the attractions could be the way to go, but if you're looking for a more long-term investment, Tampa may be your best bet.

Attend local seminars, workshops, and webinars to expand knowledge and network with other investors.

While I do not consider myself an expert, I am determined to enhance my knowledge in real estate investing.

Feel free to connect with me here on BP or on social media.

(Always helpful to have knowledge of both sides!)