New Re-intro for Out of State Investing

[Laurence Fru]

Afternoon all, 

I signed up for the Real Estate Rookie BootCamp years ago - then had a few life change situations, so am still absolutely a beginner at this.

I'm based in a HCOL area and have now started looking into out of state investing. Ideally I would like to pick somewhere that I'd have some connection to - but I'm really stuck and over analyzing everything. 

Would love to connect to any North Jersey folk that are also out of state investing in long-term rentals. 

[Melissa Justice]

@Laurence Fru,

Thanks for sharing and you are absolutely not alone! Life happens, and the fact that you’re still here, still learning, and now ready to re-engage says a lot about your drive and commitment.

Quick perspective on your situation:

* You’ve done something most people haven’t - taken initiative by signing up for a bootcamp and starting the education process.
* Being in a high-cost-of-living (HCOL) area like North Jersey (I'm actually from Morris County originally) makes out-of-state investing a smart and often necessary move.
* Wanting a connection to your market is totally natural, but don’t let it paralyze your momentum. Sometimes the best connection is a great team on the ground.

A few tips to move past the analysis paralysis:

Pick 2–3 markets to compare side by side - look for landlord-friendly states, low property taxes, population growth, and strong rental demand.
Consider turnkey rentals in the Midwest or Southeast - they’re great for beginners, can offer solid cash flow, and come with built-in property management.
You don’t have to marry a market forever. Choose one that feels 70% right and start building familiarity and team connections there.

Since you're from North Jersey, you’re in great company - many investors from the tri-state area buy in places like Birmingham, AL, Indianapolis, IN, Cleveland, OH, Augusta or Macon, GA, Memphis, TN, etc.

These areas have low price points, strong rent-to-price ratios, and turnkey options with vetted local teams, which is key when you're investing from afar.

You might be surprised how many North Jersey folks are already investing out of state. Put the feelers out in FB groups, BP forums, or at local REIAs or even DM a few people who post about it. You’ll find your people quicker than you think.

You’re back in the game - now it’s just about taking small, intentional steps. You've got this! Let me know if you'd like help comparing markets or analyzing a deal.

Best of luck,

Melissa