Seeking a mentor is a fantastic idea to guide you through your first real estate investmentI'd recommend exploring networking events, online forums, and local real estate meetups.Best of luck! 

Welcome to Chicago and awesome to see you jumping right into the BP forums.I think you will find this community to be very helpful...definitely keep posting and coming out to the local events. 

Hello BP fellows, I'm currently on the lookout for arbitrage properties in the city of Kissimmee, Florida, and could really use some guidance from those familiar with the local rental real estate market.

Determine how comfortable you are with these risks and make sure you have enough money saved up for any unanticipated difficulties.Examine Market Conditions: Do some research on the local real estate market as well as those of other possible investment destinations.

San Antonio is a great market for smart STR investors and I own a local STR management company.

Not sure if you're looking to invest locally or where the numbers make more sense but feel free to reach out if you'd like to connect.Regardless, keep us posted on your journey!

Some lenders may require a stable work history to approve a mortgage, so be sure to discuss your options with a mortgage broker or lender.Network and Seek Guidance: Connect with experienced real estate investors, join local real estate meetups or forums, and seek guidance from professionals in the industry.

Update: We are meeting the third Thursday of every month at the Keller Williams office in Lafayette, IN.Hope to see some local folks from BiggerPockets there!

We would have liked to invest locally but prices here in California were too high for our budget.

We should connect since we are local.