New to Real Estate – Based in Queens, NY & Ready to Learn

[Kevin Martelo]

Hi everyone, I’m Kevin! I’m based in Queens, NY, and I’m just getting started on my real estate investing journey. I recently joined BiggerPockets because I want to learn how to build financial freedom—first for my parents, and then for myself.

My long-term dream is to purchase an apartment in Barranquilla, Colombia, where my parents are from, so they can retire comfortably. I’m also looking to invest here in the U.S. and create rental income through small multifamily properties or house hacking.

I currently work as a Spanish interpreter and earn about $27K/year, so I’m starting from the ground up—but I’m committed. Right now, I’m focused on learning, networking, and preparing to make that first move.

❓One thing I’d love advice on:

What’s your best tip for someone starting with limited income but big motivation and discipline?

Looking forward to learning from this awesome community and connecting with like-minded people!

Thanks,

Kevin M.

[Mitch Messer]

Quote from @Kevin Martelo:

Hi everyone, I’m Kevin! I’m based in Queens, NY, and I’m just getting started on my real estate investing journey. I recently joined BiggerPockets because I want to learn how to build financial freedom—first for my parents, and then for myself.

My long-term dream is to purchase an apartment in Barranquilla, Colombia, where my parents are from, so they can retire comfortably. I’m also looking to invest here in the U.S. and create rental income through small multifamily properties or house hacking.

I currently work as a Spanish interpreter and earn about $27K/year, so I’m starting from the ground up—but I’m committed. Right now, I’m focused on learning, networking, and preparing to make that first move.

❓One thing I’d love advice on:

What’s your best tip for someone starting with limited income but big motivation and discipline?

Looking forward to learning from this awesome community and connecting with like-minded people!

Thanks,

Kevin M.

Hey Kevin, welcome to BiggerPockets! 

I was raised in Queens, NY and I can relate to your goal to build financial freedom.

Also, while I've not yet visited Barranquilla, I have lived in Medellín and Santa Marta, Colombia! It's a beautiful country.

Fortunately, your personal income has little to do with your desire to learn real estate investing.

When you're starting out, only TWO skills truly matter:

1. Learn how to analyze, recognize and organize money-making deals.

2. Learn how to speak to sellers in such a way that they want to tell you their problems.

To develop these skills, you don't need a dime. You DO need to put in the hours practicing.

Find investors in your chosen market who are actually closing deals. Analyze the deals they've done. Talk to the seller leads they throw away.

Get some repetitions under your belt and you'll be well on your way!