New to BRRRR – Looking to Learn, Connect, and Take Action

New Member Introductions
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New to BRRRR – Looking to Learn, Connect, and Take Action

William Miller
Member since 2020 · 64 posts · 145 votes

Hey everyone,

Name’s Will. I’m new to all this but have been doing a lot of research and finally decided to jump in. My wife and I are getting into the BRRRR strategy with the goal of building passive income and eventually being financially free. I work full time and we have a couple properties already, but now we’re getting more serious about scaling and doing it right.

Right now we’re in California, but planning to invest out of state. Been looking into areas like Indy, Dayton, Kansas City… anywhere the numbers make sense and there’s good rent demand. I’m planning to pull around 70k in equity from one of our homes here in AZ and use that to get our first BRRRR deal done. The goal is to keep recycling that and build a portfolio that gets us out of the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.

We’re still new to the process and want to connect with people who’ve done this before. I’m hoping to meet some agents, contractors, property managers, anyone that’s investor friendly and knows the game. I’d love to hear from folks that’ve made mistakes too — anything that can help us avoid learning the hard way.

We’re not trying to get rich quick or anything, just want to build long-term wealth and take care of our family. If you got advice, experience, or even a deal you think fits what we’re looking for, I’m all ears.

 Appreciate you all!!

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Nicholas L.Pro Member
Flipper/Rehabber · Pittsburgh · Member since 2018 · 6k+ posts · 5k+ votes
1y

@William Miller

just a few reactions and cautions

-BRRRR is not a cash flow strategy, it's an equity strategy. if you do it right you'll have a great, fixed up property, and have forced a bunch of equity - and have no cash flow. now, there's a way to generate cash flow - you sell the property as a flip. but again, BRRRR holds aren't going to generate any cash flow.

-BRRRRs are much more challenging out of state.  i did 1 an hour away from me and it was a huge pain.  how will you find deals and move on them fast enough?  how will you find contractors?  how will you manage the rehab?  

-why not stay local?  i bet you'll tell me the prices are too high.  but, it's not easy in Indianapolis or Dayton either.  other challenges - older properties, inconsistent appraisals and lots of demand there too for the best properties by people who can move faster than you can, plus what i mentioned above.

hope this gives you some things to think about

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  • Kerlous TadresBusiness Member
    Realtor · Columbus, OH · Member since 2023 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    1y

    Hey Will, I would suggest focusing on areas like Dayton, and Kansas City. Since you're working full-time, hire a reliable property manager to make the process passive. Leverage your equity wisely, consider hard money for purchase and rehab, and then refinance later.
    Be sure to budget for unexpected rehab costs, as underestimating them is a common mistake. Always have an exit strategy in case refinancing doesn’t go as planned. Lastly, connect with local investor-friendly agents and contractors to build your network.

    [email protected]614-490-1163
    Kerlous Tadres | Reafco Real Estate539 Reviews
    WebsiteView Page
    0Reply
  • Caleb Brown
    Real Estate Agent · Kansas City · Member since 2018 · 4k+ posts · 3k+ votes
    1y

    Happy to connect on KC and get you filled in on the market 

    0Reply
  • Nicholas L.Pro Member
    Flipper/Rehabber · Pittsburgh · Member since 2018 · 6k+ posts · 5k+ votes
    1y

    @William Miller

    just a few reactions and cautions

    -BRRRR is not a cash flow strategy, it's an equity strategy. if you do it right you'll have a great, fixed up property, and have forced a bunch of equity - and have no cash flow. now, there's a way to generate cash flow - you sell the property as a flip. but again, BRRRR holds aren't going to generate any cash flow.

    -BRRRRs are much more challenging out of state.  i did 1 an hour away from me and it was a huge pain.  how will you find deals and move on them fast enough?  how will you find contractors?  how will you manage the rehab?  

    -why not stay local?  i bet you'll tell me the prices are too high.  but, it's not easy in Indianapolis or Dayton either.  other challenges - older properties, inconsistent appraisals and lots of demand there too for the best properties by people who can move faster than you can, plus what i mentioned above.

    hope this gives you some things to think about

    3Reply
  • William Miller
    OP
    Member since 2020 · 64 posts · 145 votes
    1y

    Thanks for the input and giving me more to think about! The only reason I feel like doing it out of state is because I hear nothing but negative things doing realestate in CA. Staying local even in this state might be the better choice! I’ll have to do some researching on this. 

    1Reply
  • E.J. McCaffrey
    Member since 2025 · 194 posts · 140 votes
    1y

    Welcome to the group!

    As you begin building and expanding your real estate portfolio, one of the most valuable steps you can take is to establish a strong, forward-thinking asset protection plan.

    Real estate investing holds significant opportunity, but also comes with its share of risks, including lawsuits, liability claims, and unexpected creditor challenges. Without proper safeguards, your assets could be left exposed. By implementing the right legal and financial structures, you can protect your personal wealth, minimize litigation risk, and limit creditor access. In many situations, having a solid asset protection strategy also enhances your position in negotiations or disputes, often leading to better outcomes.

    To successfully navigate these considerations, it’s essential to build a reliable team of experienced professionals. This typically includes a real estate-savvy tax advisor and an asset protection attorney who understands both your investment goals and risk profile. With the right advisors, you can create a customized strategy that supports long-term growth while reducing unnecessary complications and costs.

    Smart investing isn’t just about acquiring properties, it’s also about protecting what you’re building. Wishing you continued success, security, and peace of mind on your real estate journey!

    Disclaimer: This message is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal, tax, financial, or investment advice. No attorney-client, fiduciary, or advisory relationship is formed by this communication. Always consult with qualified professionals familiar with your unique situation before making decisions.

    0Reply
  • Joey BanasihanPro Member
    Investor · Boise, ID · Member since 2019 · 233 posts · 188 votes
    1y

    Hey @William Miller—

    Really appreciate you sharing this! You’re already ahead of the game with a few properties and the right mindset—focusing on long-term wealth and staying humble goes a long way in this business.

    Pulling equity to do your first BRRRR is what its all about. Curious—what matters most to you in this next market you pick? Is it strong rent growth, high appreciation, price-to-rent ratio? I ask because that can really shape which city stands out for your goals.

    Also—have you built a short list of what you'd want in a local team? Property managers and investor-savvy agents can make or break the BRRRR cycle when you're scaling from a distance. Agents who have experince with BRRRR and who also invest? Happy to share a few lessons (and screwups) we've seen along the way if it's helpful.

    We work with a million people from CA (haha) doing out-of-state BRRRRs, so totally agree with the move for sure!

    [email protected]
    0Reply
    • William Miller
      OP
      Member since 2020 · 64 posts · 145 votes
      1y

      @Joey Banasihan 

      Really appreciate the reply! Honestly, I’m still learning how to look at all those market factors like appreciation vs rent growth vs price-to-rent — but right now I’d say cash flow and affordability matter most to us starting out. We’re looking for something that doesn’t break the bank on the first go but still leaves some room to scale and learn from the process.

      I’ve been looking into Indy, Dayton, and maybe Kansas City. My thought is to get that first successful BRRRR under our belt and build momentum from there. Once we’ve gone through the full cycle, I’ll probably start thinking more long-term about appreciation and equity plays.

      As for the local team — that’s been my biggest focus lately. I’d love to find an agent who actually invests themselves or at least understands what investors look for. Same for property managers. I know if the team’s not solid, the whole BRRRR process can fall apart real fast.

      Definitely open to hearing any lessons or mistakes you’ve seen — we’re brand new to the BRRRR method but serious about doing it right and building something long-term. Appreciate you reaching out and offering the help, really means a lot!

      0Reply
  • Jimmy LieuBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Columbus, OH · Member since 2019 · 3k+ posts · 2k+ votes
    1y
    Quote from @William Miller:

    Hey everyone,

    Name's Will. I'm new to all this but have been doing a lot of research and finally decided to jump in. My wife and I are getting into the BRRRR strategy with the goal of building passive income and eventually being financially free. I work full time and we have a couple properties already, but now we're getting more serious about scaling and doing it right.

    Right now we're in California, but planning to invest out of state. Been looking into areas like Indy, Dayton, Kansas City… anywhere the numbers make sense and there's good rent demand. I'm planning to pull around 70k in equity from one of our homes here in AZ and use that to get our first BRRRR deal done. The goal is to keep recycling that and build a portfolio that gets us out of the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.

    We’re still new to the process and want to connect with people who’ve done this before. I’m hoping to meet some agents, contractors, property managers, anyone that’s investor friendly and knows the game. I’d love to hear from folks that’ve made mistakes too — anything that can help us avoid learning the hard way.

    We’re not trying to get rich quick or anything, just want to build long-term wealth and take care of our family. If you got advice, experience, or even a deal you think fits what we’re looking for, I’m all ears.

     Appreciate you all!!

    Hey Will, sounds like you and your wife are on the right track! BRRRR is an awesome way to scale if you're disciplined and patient with the numbers (I will say it's harder to do a clean BRRRR nowadays but partial BRRRRs are much more realistic). I totally get looking outside of CA—I'm originally from Portland and moved to Columbus, OH in 2020 to build my portfolio and now own 10+ rentals here. I'd definitely recommend putting Columbus on your list if you haven't already. The macroeconomics are super strong—population growth, job growth, and massive developments like the $26B Intel plant, plus major players like Amazon, Google, Facebook, Honda, LG, Microsoft, and more. You can still find properties in the $120–180K range that hit the 1% rule and cash flow well, especially if you're buying with cash or a strong down payment like you're planning. On top of that, the appreciation potential is very real—anything you pick up now has a solid chance of growing long term. A lot of out-of-state BRRRR investors are making it work here with good PMs and contractors on the ground, so definitely doable. Happy to connect and answer any questions you have!

    [email protected]614-300-7535
    Jimmy Lieu, Red 1 Realty4.9120 Reviews
    WebsiteView Page
    0Reply
  • Remington LymanBusiness Member
    Real Estate Agent · Columbus, OH · Member since 2017 · 6k+ posts · 7k+ votes
    1y
    Quote from @William Miller:

    Hey everyone,

    Name's Will. I'm new to all this but have been doing a lot of research and finally decided to jump in. My wife and I are getting into the BRRRR strategy with the goal of building passive income and eventually being financially free. I work full time and we have a couple properties already, but now we're getting more serious about scaling and doing it right.

    Right now we're in California, but planning to invest out of state. Been looking into areas like Indy, Dayton, Kansas City… anywhere the numbers make sense and there's good rent demand. I'm planning to pull around 70k in equity from one of our homes here in AZ and use that to get our first BRRRR deal done. The goal is to keep recycling that and build a portfolio that gets us out of the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle.

    We’re still new to the process and want to connect with people who’ve done this before. I’m hoping to meet some agents, contractors, property managers, anyone that’s investor friendly and knows the game. I’d love to hear from folks that’ve made mistakes too — anything that can help us avoid learning the hard way.

    We’re not trying to get rich quick or anything, just want to build long-term wealth and take care of our family. If you got advice, experience, or even a deal you think fits what we’re looking for, I’m all ears.

     Appreciate you all!!


     Welcome to BP! I think you are on the right track for your first investment. Get something that is turnkey and on the cheaper side for your first investment

    [email protected]614-541-8475Podcast Guest on Show My Job Laid Me Off, So I Replaced My Salary with Rentals
    Reafco512 Reviews
    WebsiteView Page
    0Reply
  • Terrance HillPro Member
    Realtor · Memphis, TN · Member since 2010 · 425 posts · 117 votes
    1y

    Welcome, Will! Love that you’ve already taken action and have a clear “why.” A couple quick thoughts:

    • Since you’re looking at out-of-state BRRRRs, your local team (PM, lender, contractor, RE agent) will be the most important piece—start building those relationships early.
    • Before locking in a market, compare a few deals side by side using the BiggerPockets calculators so you can see how rehab costs, rent demand, and cash flow stack up.
    • Make sure you have reserves set aside beyond your $70k so you’re not stretched too thin on your first go.

    Sounds like you're on the right track—keep learning, run your numbers carefully, and you'll find the right fit. Excited to see your first BRRRR deal!

    0Reply
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