New & Nervous – Excited to Start My Real Estate Journey!

[Jennifer Milfort]

Hi everyone,

I’m brand new to real estate investing. Let me be honest, I’m super nervous but also really excited to start this journey! 😅

I just recently started learning, and I’ve already picked up two books (can’t believe how much there is to learn). This is all very new to me—I’m still figuring out the basics like cash flow, financing, and market analysis.

One thing that caught my attention is turnkey properties. I had honestly never even heard the term until a few weeks ago. The idea of something move-in ready with less upfront work sounds like a good fit for me as a beginner.

I’m based in New York and am especially interested in Albany or Rochester, NY. If anyone has tips on where to find legit turnkey properties in those markets—or just any guidance at all—I’d appreciate it. 🙏

Would love to connect with others who started from scratch, too. Thanks for having me here!

Jen

[Melissa Justice]

@Jennifer Milfort,

Hey! While Albany and Rochester have potential on paper, New York state’s landlord-tenant laws are some of the most tenant-favored in the country, making it risky for long-distance investors, especially beginners. Things like extended eviction timelines, rent control policies, and strict regulations can seriously cut into your cash flow and peace of mind.

Here’s a better path for you as a new investor exploring turnkeys:

 Look into landlord-friendly markets with:
* Strong rent-to-price ratios
* Affordable entry points
* Solid property management infrastructure
* Consistent rental demand

Top Turnkey-Friendly Markets to Consider:

Birmingham, AL
* Low property taxes, strong rental demand
* High cash flow potential
* Reliable turnkey operators and property managers

Indianapolis, IN
* Steady appreciation and affordable inventory
* Turnkey-friendly with a large investor network
* Very landlord-friendly

Cleveland or Columbus, OH
* Excellent cash flow markets
* Very active turnkey providers
* Property taxes are moderate, laws are landlord-favorable

Augusta or Macon, GA
* Hidden gems for investors
* Good rent-to-value ratios
* Georgia is very investor-friendly

Next Steps:

* Start researching these markets through BiggerPockets and YouTube walkthroughs from real turnkey providers.
* Analyze deals weekly, even if you're not buying yet.
* Interview turnkey companies and property managers to build a team before investing.

You're asking the right questions at the right time. Turnkeys can still be a great way to get started - just make sure you're in a state that protects your investment, not works against it.

Let me know if you want help comparing deals in one of these markets - always here!

Best of luck,

Melissa