Buying in NYC

[Eva G.]

Hi everyone- 

I'm Eva, am a newbie to Bigger Pockets. I'm in a bit of a predicament and was hoping to get some advice/suggestions. I would like to start investing but I'm not really sure how to go about it. 

I live in NYC and as you all know it's hard to make an ROI in the first couple years (maybe only once it appreciates). I also have a very demanding job (am in consulting) which does not provide a lot of flexibility to look at places. So my questions are the following:

(1) Should I even try to invest in NYC (buying a small condo or something)? If not what are better alternatives that are nearby?

(2) Should I look into out of state investing?

(3) Are there alternatives to hands on investing and what are some passive investing options? (maybe that's a better option since my time is limited and there aren't a lot of buying options in the area)

Thanks in advance!!

[Les Jean-Pierre]

Hello, one thing to keep in mind is in NYC there are housing programs that might sell 2-4 families. I live in Harlem and know people who got in that way. You live in one unit and rent out the rest. Not for everyone but that is an option. But, you need to be ready to move on it when and if they call.