Looking for some guidance.

[Andrew Starliper]

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 

[Mike Neubauer]

@Andrew Starliper. Why not start out networking with real estate investors right here on Maui?  There's a bunch of us.  Some buy here some buy out of state.  We have a monthly real estate meetup in Kihei every first Saturday of the month at 8am.  It's free and open to all. Hope to see you next month!