New Real Estate Investor

[Brian Cronin]

Hi BiggerPockets community!

My husband and I currently live in Portsmouth, NH and are renting, but we’ve recently been bitten by the real estate bug. We were originally planning to purchase a single-family home as our primary residence, but after doing some research we’re realizing that getting into multifamily could be a smarter move toward financial independence.

I’d describe myself as having a moderate risk tolerance — I like to be strategic and careful, but I’m ready to take action. I’m really hoping to connect with others who have been in a similar position and can share their stories of getting started in the New England real estate market.

Short-term goals:

1. Learn the ins and outs of small multifamily investing — how to analyze deals, get started, and ensure solid cash flow.

2. House hack a small multifamily to get out of our current rental.

Long-term goals:

1. Build a portfolio of cash-flowing properties.

2. Reach financial independence with enough monthly cash flow to step away from the 9–5.

I’ve owned a single-family home in the past (which I sold at a profit), so I have some capital ready to deploy into our first investment property. Excited to learn, network, and hopefully contribute here as we get our start!

Looking forward to connecting with you all,

Brian 

[Kerlous Tadres]

Hey @Brian Cronin,
I’d recommend focusing on learning how to analyze deals so you know your numbers cold, factor in taxes, maintenance, vacancy, and today’s interest rates. Get pre-approved with a lender who does owner-occupied multifamily loans and start touring 2–4 units to see what rents and repairs really look like. House hacking that first property will teach you tenant screening and expense management, which sets you up for the next purchase.