Regional? 

I've seen places like Montreal and Toronto grow and have seen Dubai become what it is today.I don't believe its even possible to plan for something of that unknown, definitely not by yourself at least.I appreciate the advice, thanks!

I am looking at starting a similar group in Toronto, Canada, focusing on commercial real estate investing.This is the format I was thinking of using:1. 20 minutes networking2. 40 minutes speaker or workshop (finding a deal, negotiating, raising capital, managing, taxes, refinancing) & Q&A3. 10 minutes people pitching ideas to the group4. 30 minutes networkingMaybe we could share speakers.

Looking to get into buy and hold in staten island and in close surrounding areas, flips in my region but where the price points make more sense. 

@Wesley Merville Finance In between UnitsLook for small banks/credit unions/regional banksSpeak to SVP at the Bank check out this post http://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/49/topics/1755...For MF you will need to put 20-25% down payment or even 30% at timessMake sure your Debt Service Coverage Ratio is 1.25 or 1.5 (better) - According to Investopedia In personal finance, DSCR is a ratio used by bank loan officers in determining income property loans.

welcome to BP: my wife and I moved here (jacksonville, FL) from Tampa Bay region 2 years ago July.

I'm located in Toronto and I have properties in Atlanta.

Not talking to you directly, but it's just something people outside of SE MI can't really grasp unless you grow up there or spend a lot of time in that region of the country.

I contacted the Ohio division of real estate (or whatever they call themselves - I forget now) and I also called the regional MLS.

To get past 4 in a conventional loan you might try local and regional banks and credit unions.