Multi Family Homes, Rookie Investor, Knowledge Building

[Samantha Chacon-Johnson]

Hello! I am new to Bigger Pockets and to real estate investing. I am currently in the phase of acquiring knowledge to improve our odds/outcomes for our next purchase. Hopefully looking to buy again in the Spring of 2026.  Any direction on what to read, listen to, or watch would be beneficial. Thanks! 

[Melissa Justice]

@Samantha Chacon-Johnson,

Welcome to BiggerPockets and congrats on taking the smart approach by investing in education first! That foundation will absolutely pay off when you’re ready to buy in Spring 2025.

Here’s a solid roadmap to help you ramp up:
Must-Read Books (All from BiggerPockets Publishing):
- "The Book on Rental Property Investing" by Brandon Turner
- "Real Estate by the Numbers" by Dave Meyer & J Scott
- "The Book on Managing Rental Properties" (great if you plan to self-manage or want to understand PMs)
- "Long-Distance Real Estate Investing" by David Greene — crucial if you’re open to out-of-state deals

 Podcasts to Subscribe To:
- BiggerPockets Real Estate Podcast – great mix of beginner to advanced content
- Real Estate Rookie – super helpful for new investors; real-world stories, breakdowns, and mistakes to avoid
- On the Market – for understanding interest rates, trends, and the economy's impact on REI

YouTube Channels Worth Watching:
- BiggerPockets YouTube – deal analysis, walkthroughs, and success stories

-The David Greene Team – focused on BRRRR and financing strategies

-Zasha Smith / Shelby Osborne – both share great content for scaling with a realistic mindset

-Rent to Retirement – especially helpful if you’re interested in turnkey out-of-state investing and want insights into markets like Birmingham, Memphis, and others

 Pro Tip:
As you prep for 2025, start identifying markets that align with your budget and goals. Strong, affordable markets for cash flow (that many new investors are entering) are in the Midwest and Southeast - all offering solid SFR or small multifamily options.

You’re doing it the right way - educate first, then execute. If you’d like any help narrowing down a strategy or market fit, I’m happy to share what’s worked for me and others starting out!

Best of luck,

Melissa