Brand New To This!

[Brendan Ruby]

Hi all -

I am looking to get into real estate! Woohoo! Always been a thought (albeit imaginary), but now thinking more seriously.

I need some advice on analyzing properties and markets.  What are the number to look at? What are the real life pitfalls that exist? From your experience.  I know I can get AI advice, but looking for real world help!

My initial thought and goal is along term hold play of a few properties - I do currently work and do not plan on changing that aspect of my life.  In my mind this is a passive income long term play if all goes well, but understand I need multiple exit strategies! 

I appreciate any and all advice!

[Chris Seveney]

Welcome, and asking before doing is already a better start than most.

Honest advice is to stop analyzing and start listening. Find a local real estate investor meetup, go consistently, and spend more time asking questions than talking. The stories you'll hear in those rooms are worth more than any course or spreadsheet template.

The metrics, cap rates, cash on cash, debt service coverage, will make sense fast once you have real deals to apply them to. But find two or three people who are already doing what you want to do, buy them coffee, and listen carefully.

The passive income vision is real but it takes years to build, not months. Let the education come before the checkbook does.