These property purchases were at around $35,000 renting at $1000 in 2011, today fast forward..... average price $170,000 (SFH) and renting for around $1400 per monthToday, finding another market to provide opportunity...

Too many newbies are waiting for a market Correction, the reality when it happens interest rates will be higher and the Experience Investors are the ones that will be able to take advantage of the opportunities available..When I started about 3 years ago everything I was researching was at a new time high, my only regret was not starting earlier..If a deal makes sense and you have the resources to buy don't wait if your goal is to invest in RE.. 

I live in Auburn Alabama and the market here is pretty crazy so I have been looking at surrounding cities like Montgomery and Birmingham that are bigger and more affordable.I know that the typical down payment someone’s needs for commercial is 25% so short of me getting seller financing, or a partner, or some other creative finance path my purchase power leads me towards properties that are typically in lower income areas- at least for the ones I’ve spotted. (200K ish) I’ve listened to pretty much every podcast multiple times and often hear people saying that when they begin they focus more on cash flow and as they grow they look more towards appreciation opportunities.

Property A - listed at $229k and in contract at $225k - solid deal with loan $169,000 and total down payment is $56k ($28k comes from each of our separate 1031 exchange fund)We are both in the loan and title for property A and B per QI instruction.Property B - listed at $275k - missed the opportunity - backup offer at $265k) (almost no chance to purchase it)What happens if we can not purchase property B?

Luck is hard work meeting opportunity. 

i am not afraid opportunities and know that I’ve grown and evolved even only submitting the few offers I have.

i am not afraid opportunities and know that I’ve grown and evolved even only submitting the few offers I have.

Any networking opportunities coming up?  

I think there are far easier opportunities in the market (non real estate related) that can get me a measly 3% net rate of return (You might as well leave the money in the bank or buy a treasury bond which is much less risker and hassle free than owning real estate)Lastly Patience & DisciplinePurchasing your first property, or even adding to your portfolio only happens when its right for you and nobody else.

That could be a great way to find and stay engaged with local investors, realtors and opportunities. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsYou can also search for other investors or brokers in your markets and follow their journey on Bigger Pockets here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersAnd of course, be sure to subscribe to the podcast - so much great info there and also full of inspiration.