Need advice on my path

[Robel Nessro]

Hey everyone, I’m 19 and currently in college studying business management. I’ve got about two years left, but I’ve been really thinking about how to get started in real estate investing  it’s something I’ve been passionate about since I was 15. One of my high school teachers introduced me to it and ever since then I’ve been hooked on the idea of buying properties, fixing them up, and building long-term wealth. Lately, I’ve been seriously considering joining the Air Force so I can use the VA loan to buy my first 4-unit property while still finishing my degree through military benefits. I feel like it would be a smart way to start investing early, especially since I don’t come from money and want to use every opportunity available. The only issue is my dad is totally against the idea. He wants me to finish college first and doesn’t really understand why I’d want to go the military route. I keep telling him I still plan to graduate, just while also making progress toward my real estate goals. So I’m kind of stuck. Do I stay in school full-time and wait to start investing, or take the leap, join the military, and use the VA loan to get started sooner? I’d really appreciate any advice or insight — especially from anyone who’s taken a similar path. Thanks!

[Hamp Lee III]

I recently retired from the Air Force after 30 years of service.

I currently have four properties with three of them being a VA loan. Using my VA loan was a great way to start my REI journey.

Saying this, I joined the Air Force in 1995 because I lost my basketball scholarship and had no way to pay for school. My friends and close family either wanted to do illegal activities or were already doing them. I joined to do something positive with my life.

Military service has its own nuances and should be considered before joining for this benefit. I recommend speaking to other current or prior service members first.

There are many programs that provide similar loan benefits, like NACA. NACA is a great way to buy a 1-4 family home as a first time home buyer.

I appreciate you coming on this forum to ask the question.

When I was in college, I didn’t have anywhere to ask for help, so I made the best decision I could. It worked out for me, but some are not as fortunate.

Since you asked this question, keep asking more questions to make a well-informed decision.

If you have any further questions, please message me.

I wish you all the best.