Looking to learn real estate investing!

Dallas, Texas
New Member Introductions
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Looking to learn real estate investing!

Karlton Ellies
Dallas, TX · Member since 2017 · 3 posts · 2 votes

Hello, everyone. I am new into real estate investing and been interested in this for some time. Looking for mentors or people that can show me the ropes and how I can also help people at the same time. Any advice, and or tips would be appreciated. I will be starting out probably with house hacking and using the VA Loan.

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  • Eric Gerakos
    Investor · Costa Mesa, CA · Member since 2016 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes
    1y

    Welcome, Karlton. 

    0Reply
  • Nadeem Alamgir
    Real Estate Agent · Member since 2023 · 831 posts · 577 votes
    1y

    Hey Karlton, welcome to Bigger Pockets. There are plenty of investors here who are just starting out. The best thing you can do is attend some local meetups through Eventbrite or Meetup.com to network with other investors, whether they are just starting out or have some experience already. I also recommend reaching out to some investor friendly agents so they can help you figure out the current market conditions and recommended strategies for newer investors, among other things. Best of luck as you get started here!

    0Reply
  • Micah White
    Real Estate Coach · Chicago, IL · Member since 2020 · 171 posts · 64 votes
    1y

    Welcome, Karlton! Congratulations on taking that first step! Committing to the process is key! I'd be happy to help show you the ropes and hopefully help you avoid the rookie mistakes that I made when I first started!

    0Reply
  • Karlton Ellies
    OP
    Dallas, TX · Member since 2017 · 3 posts · 2 votes
    1y

    Thank you! I am most definitely open for that or any tips.  

    Micah White

    0Reply
  • Terrance HillPro Member
    Realtor · Memphis, TN · Member since 2010 · 425 posts · 117 votes
    1y

    Hey Karlton, welcome to the world of real estate investing!

    With over 10 years in both investing and real estate sales, here’s a bit of advice as you start:

    1. Focus on Learning Local Markets: Dallas is a big, dynamic market. Spend time understanding neighborhoods that fit your budget and offer good rental demand. Look for areas with stable employment, good schools, and amenities.
    2. House Hacking Strategy: Buying a duplex or triplex can be a great start. You live in one unit and rent out the others, which helps cover your mortgage and builds equity over time.
    3. Build Your Team: Mentors are gold. Join local real estate meetups, REI groups, or online forums. Reach out to realtors, lenders, and investors who know the Dallas market. People love to share their experience when they see your genuine interest.
    4. Keep Learning: BiggerPockets has tons of free resources—podcasts, blogs, forums. Make those part of your daily routine.
    5. VA Loan Perks: Don't overlook the VA Loan benefits—no down payment, competitive rates, and often more flexible credit requirements. Just be sure to run the numbers on any property to ensure it cash flows well.

    If you ever want to bounce ideas around or need pointers on deals, feel free to reach out. Real estate is a journey, but with the right mindset and people behind you, it’s incredibly rewarding.

    0Reply
  • Wale LawalBusiness Member
    Real Estate Broker · Houston | Dallas | Austin, TX · Member since 2018 · 5k+ posts · 2k+ votes
    1y

    @Karlton Ellies

    Welcome to the world of real estate investing, starting with house hacking using your VA loan is a smart move, especially since it allows you to purchase with little to no money down. The key now is surrounding yourself with investor-friendly agents, lenders, and mentors who understand the local Texas market and VA loan strategy. Focus on finding a property where the rental income from the other units or rooms can cover most (or all) of your mortgage. DM me and I'll point you in the right direction with connections, resources, and potential mentors to help you get started.

    Good luck!

    Wale — Houston-based investor agent working with buy-and-hold clients.

    [email protected]832-776-9582Podcast Guest on Show #469
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