I'm 23 years old and plan to use real estate for my retirement, but that's in the distant future.My question is whether it's better to pay off the mortgage as quickly as possible or to buy a rental property as soon as possible.My thoughts are that if I pay off my home, I'll have security and more money each month to invest, as I won't have to make mortgage or rent payments.

If I NEED to sell within five years, this calculation provides insight into the real-world return that incorporates these vital aspects of the investment.I want a balance between steady cash flow and long-term appreciation potential. 

Oh no it is VERY real.

In my experience trying to raise capital from people within the real estate community doesn't seem to be the best method because most people in real estate are more interested in building their own businesses, rather than investing in someone elses (especially when considering how much money it takes to invest in syndications).

Almost every problem you can think of happened.....So there I was, a seasoned real estate amateur. 

Hello Everyone, I am new here but i’m looking for some new connections to help me grow my knowledge and portfolio in real estate.

Quote from @Jackson Ebersole: Hi Piper,It's always smart to flip properties in-state, and I'd like to share some updated insights on why this approach is beneficial, especially in the New Jersey area.Lenders typically feel more comfortable with in-state flips because:You can manage the rehab more easilyYou have better knowledge of local real estate trends and valuesYou can respond quickly to issues or make decisions fasterThere's a lower risk of fraud or being taken advantage of by distant partnersI can help you with recommendations for the New Jersey market:North Bergen: Continues to show strong potential, with average profits now around $150,000 per flip and a gross ROI of 85%.Willingboro: While specific flip numbers aren't available, the market remains active with a gross ROI now averaging around 130%.Gloucester City: Still a top performer, with gross ROI hovering around 180-190%, though still on smaller profit margins.Irvington: Home values have continued to rise, with a 20% increase over the past two years.East Orange: Has seen steady growth, with home values up by about 16% since 2022.Paterson: Experienced a 14% increase in home values over the last two years.Additionally, Jersey City and Newark have emerged as promising markets for flips, with strong appreciation rates and growing demand.

Most importantly, we view this as a strategic move to grow our real estate portfolio.

I'd like to thank Brandon Turner for his successful efforts in establishing a community for would-be and aspiring real estate investors.

My goal here is to finally get into real estate investing and hopefully get my first property here soon.