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Updated about 11 hours ago on . Most recent reply
Looking for some guidance.
Hello all!
My name is Andrew—as you can see above! I’ve recently had some major life changes, including the birth of my first son. I have a decent-paying job (around $80K a year), but the cost of living here in Maui is extremely high (I rent). Because of that, I’ve taken on a sort of side hustle in solar sales.
I’ve been interested in real estate for a while but never really knew where to start. Lately, I’ve been watching BiggerPockets and Real Estate Rookie on YouTube to learn more.
Moving from Maui is definitely an option, and we’re planning to relocate sometime next year, possibly mid-year. My wife and I love Tennessee and are seriously considering moving there. That said, I’m wondering if it might be smarter to first move to a better real estate market for a few years, gain some experience, and then make the move to Tennessee.
Another potential option is Dallas, Texas. I could transfer my current job there at a similar pay rate, which is the main reason we’re considering it.
Right now, I’m just trying to figure out where the best opportunity is to get started—or even build a game plan for the next steps. I’m a veteran, so I have access to a VA home loan, and I understand I’d need to live in the property for at least a year if I use it.
My biggest challenge at the moment is capital. While I do have a comfortable rainy-day fund, it’s not enough for a traditional down payment. I know I want to get into real estate investing—I’m just a little lost on what to focus on first.
Thanks in advance, everyone! Looking forward to chatting and connecting with you
Most Popular Reply
Quote from @Tenzapa Wakombe:
Hey Andrew, congrats on the new baby—that’s huge!
Sounds like you're in a solid spot with your job, side hustle, and the VA loan in your back pocket. Totally get the struggle with cost of living in Maui—smart move thinking about relocating.
Dallas could be a great option to start. Bigger market, more inventory, and you already have the job lined up. That could give you a good first step into real estate—especially if you go the house hack route with your VA loan.
Tennessee is awesome long-term (that’s where I’m looking too), but Dallas might give you more opportunities to build experience and equity faster.
Capital’s always the tough part starting out, but with what you’ve got going, you’re closer than you think. Keep stacking cash, learning, and looking for that first deal.
You’ve got the right mindset—just keep moving forward!
Thank you for the reply!
I appreciate your insight. I have a lot to think about with where I want to go, because I love Tennessee. (I’m from West Virginia.) So it’s kinda like home away from home.
I do believe I would have an easier time in Dallas though, so I have a lot to unpack and figure out.
I think starting out with house hacking with my VA loan is guaranteed to happen. I believe timing and the right deal will be everything!