Thoughts from the Seasoned BP investors/mentors pls...

[Dario Contreras]

So here is the situation:

I'm retiring from the military next year and can't really figure out what to spend my GI Bill (education benefits) on. I could pursue a Business degree or I could use my benefits to enter an apprenticeship to learn how to be a carpenter, electrician, plumber or any other trade. My ultimate goal is to become a REI, buy and hold properties for rental purposes. I also have the choice to move anywhere in Florida. With that said, I have a few questions.

1.  What route do you think I should go that would be advantageous to my goal, Business degree or apprenticeship? or anything else that would be helpful...

2. If you were starting as a new REI, where in Florida would you move in order to improve your odds for success? I currently live in Port Orange near Daytona Beach.

Thank you in advance for your guidance! 

Dario

[Kevin Hunter]

@Dario Contreras, congrats on your upcoming retirement.  As a fellow active duty military member I know what that truly means.  Great job!  

As for the GI bill, here are my two cents.  I would say do both.  If you want to have a great business then you will need some background.  Why not take some business classes, and at the same time, find a general contractor to work for on the side.  Learn how to paint, lay carpet, execute basic handyman stuff so that when you do start growing your investment portfolio you can knock some of that stuff out on your own.  This way you know what a typical contractor charges, how long jobs should really take.  Then, when you decide to hire all that stuff out, you are familiar with the entire process, etc...

Good luck!