Help beginning to invest in Southern California

[Robert O.]

Requesting help/guidance when beginning to invest in southern California real estate market?

[Twana Rasoul]

@Robert O. There are many ways to start here in Southern CA / San Diego. I regularly have first time buyers that start with less than $30,000 down payment and purchase a duplex, SFR or condo to house hack/make their primary.

If you are looking to purchase as an investment and not initially occupy the property then a 2-4 unit is where I'd start if you can. You can purchase something that needs some work and add value if you are comfortable with that. If you want to add more value then adding units or ADU, especially when there is already an existing garage that you can convert or build on top of.

Time is what will help you the most so buying sooner will help vs waiting years (whether it’s a multi unit or single family). The longer you hold real estate in San Diego the wealthier you become. The best time to buy real estate is yesterday....