New member here!

[Daniela Leon]

I Hi everyone! New here to bigger pockets, my name is Daniela Leon. I just recently turned 30, and I'm ready to begin my investment journey in long term rentals. Excited to be a part of this group and learn as much as I can and add to the community whenever possible.  

Any advice for someone preparing to buy a property soon that could use some remodeling? Any courses or mastermind events you'd suggest for a rookie on remodeling/buying rehabs? Thank you guys in advance!!

[Melissa Justice]

@Daniela Leon,

Welcome to the community, Daniela and happy 30th! Starting your real estate journey now puts you in a great position to build serious momentum over the next decade, especially if you’re open to value-add opportunities like rehabs.

Here’s some advice to help you get started strong with remodeling-focused rentals:

If You’re Planning to Buy a Property That Needs Remodeling:
1. Start Building Your Team Early
A solid contractor or handyman is worth their weight in gold - get referrals locally and interview more than one.

Line up an investor-friendly real estate agent and lender too (if you’re not buying with cash).

Consider partnering with a local property manager even during the rehab phase for insights on tenant expectations and rent potential.

2. Focus on Cosmetic Fixes First
As a first-timer, try to avoid anything needing major structural, plumbing, or foundation work unless you have a strong team.

Kitchens, bathrooms, paint, flooring, and curb appeal usually give you the best ROI.

3. Budget for Holding Costs + Contingency
Include extra reserves for permit delays, material shortages, or labor overruns. A 10–15% buffer is smart.

If it’s a long rehab, account for holding costs like utilities, insurance, taxes, and loan interest (if financed).

Education & Mastermind Suggestions:
Online Resources:
BiggerPockets Webinars & Forums – Tons of archived content on BRRRR, rehabs, and value-add strategies.
BiggerPockets Rookie Podcast – Focused on people exactly in your shoes - highly relatable!
YouTube Channels – Search for remodel walk-throughs by creators like The Homies, Ryan Pineda, and The Real Estate Robinsons.

Courses:
BiggerPockets Real Estate Rookie Bootcamp – A structured program for beginners that covers deal analysis, rehab, and more.
REI Remodel Course by Austin Rutherford (or similar BRRRR-focused educators) – Breaks down the reno process from a cash-flow lens.

In-Person Masterminds/Events:
BPCon 2024 (Las Vegas this October!) – Amazing for networking, workshops, and meeting investors at every level.
Local REIA (Real Estate Investor Associations) – These are everywhere and often have contractors, lenders, and rehabbers in attendance.
Meetup.com – Search for “real estate investing” in your area - often free or low-cost educational events.

Start small, stay focused, and don’t feel like you need to know everything before you buy. The best learning happens in the field. Just make sure you run your numbers, surround yourself with people who’ve done it before, and protect your downside.

You’ve got the right mindset! Welcome again and happy to always chat more about specific markets or run deal scenarios side by side :-)

Best of luck,

Melissa