I am a new investor wanting to do my first investment as a primary home and rental

[Orlando De La Torre]

My name is Orlando de la Torre, and I am a first-time real estate investor with a strong background in construction, inspections, and project management. I’m beginning my investment journey with a strategic focus on acquiring a primary residence that also generates income through house hacking—purchasing a multifamily or dual-use property to live in one unit and rent out the others.

In addition to this primary investment, I am actively exploring low-risk, medium-return opportunities such as tax lien certificates, distressed properties, and other alternative real estate investments that offer long-term value and manageable risk.

My goal is to build sustainable income, grow equity, and gain hands-on experience as I expand into a diversified real estate portfolio. I welcome connections with investors, brokers, lenders, wholesalers, and mentors to help identify quality deals and create mutually beneficial partnerships.

[Melissa Justice]

@Orlando De La Torre,

Welcome to the community, Orlando!

Your background in construction, inspections, and project management gives you a real advantage as you step into investing, especially with strategies like house hacking and distressed property deals where having that technical eye can make or break the investment.

Your plan to start with a multifamily or dual-use property is smart-it allows you to offset your housing costs while building equity and gaining experience managing tenants. Pairing that with low-risk investments like tax lien certificates shows you’re thinking long-term and managing risk wisely.

If you're open to out-of-state investing, markets like Columbus GA, Ocala FL, or even parts of the Midwest (like Akron/Canton OH) offer lower price points and cash-flowing properties that align with your goals.

Excited to see how your journey unfolds-feel free to reach out anytime you want to exchange ideas or resources!

Best of luck,

Melissa