Top 5 Resources for Newbie! GO!!!

[Zach Johnson]

Hello!!

Current commercial superintendent overseeing $40MM + in new build construction per year. I'm looking to break into the RE world in the ever-growing Columbus/ Central Ohio market in the next 12 months. 

What are your top 5 resources... this could be a forum on BP, a podcast, a book, video or a connection that you made in- person that helped YOU get started in real estate? 

[Stephen Delahoussaye]

Welcome Zach. Commercial superintendent overseeing $40M in new construction is a serious background to bring into RE investing. You already understand scope, budgets, timelines, and contractor management better than 95% of new investors. Thats a massive advantage.

My top 5 resources that actually moved the needle for me:

1. BiggerPockets forums and podcasts. You are already here which is great. The forums are where real operators share what actually works, not theory. The podcast interviews are gold for learning different strategies.

2. Your local REIA or investor meetup. In Columbus you should have several. Nothing replaces sitting across from someone who owns 20 doors in your target market and can tell you which neighborhoods are working and which ones to avoid.

3. A good property management company. Even if you plan to self manage at first, talk to a few PMs in your market early. They will tell you what rents are realistic, what tenant issues look like, and what areas have the best rent to price ratios. I run PM in Nashville and I always tell new investors to have that conversation before they buy, not after.

4. A solid lender who works with investors. Not your standard mortgage broker. Someone who understands DSCR loans, portfolio lending, and can get creative on financing for rental properties.

5. The BP rental property calculator. Run numbers on every deal before you make an offer. Most new investors overpay because they dont underwrite properly.

With your construction background you are going to be able to spot value add opportunities that other investors miss. Good luck out there.