New Investor Looking to Learn the Ropes & Network

[Shawn Tuma]

Hey everyone!

Been meaning to post an introduction for a minute, just got sidetracked with life. A little bit about me: New investor, started a house hack with a duplex at the beginning of the year using a VA loan, looking at starting fix & rents in and around the San Antonio area with SF & small MF homes by the end of this year. Eventually I will be looking to invest in properties around the country, with a goal of investing internationally later in my journey.

Outside of real estate I'm an adventurer that enjoys traveling, the outdoors in some form or another. I'm an avid student of martial arts & train everyday. The fun activities I partake in range from reading books to skydiving to obtain my USPA cert.

Would love to start networking with all the awesome & creative like minded people within this forum. I attend networking events in & around San Antonio, so any Texas investors/realtors/contractors/lenders/etc. drop me a message and hopefully we can build a lasting business relationship that benefits the both of us. I'm all for meeting anyone outside of Texas as well, so don't be shy, say Hello sometime!

[Kerlous Tadres]

Hey @Shawn Tuma! From my experience, the most important things early on are keeping your deals cash-flow positive, running the numbers on every property, and having a solid plan for value-add opportunities, think small updates that can increase rent or reduce vacancies. Build a trusted team early: a reliable contractor, a good property manager, and a lender who understands investment deals. Also, don’t underestimate tenant screening; it’ll save you headaches down the road, and network with people who can challenge and support you.