Newbie in the Miami - Fort Lauderdale area

[Ryan K.]

Hello, My name is Ryan.  I am originally from the Midwest, but now live in the Miami - Fort Lauderdale area.

I am here to gain knowledge, and meet people.

I'm looking at buying single or multi-family real estate to hold and rent long term. 

Since I was a teenager, I have wanted to get into Real Estate investing.  My parents seemed very confused, when at the age of 15 I would bring books home from the library on the subject.  Finally now I am financially able to pursue that ambition.

I've worked in roofing, siding, building, locksmithing, had a contractors license, have a degree in engineering, and currently work in aviation.

I have already read a ton of threads on this forum, and I am looking forward to learning more from all of you.

Anyone in the area, or who knows this market, please feel free to contact me.

Thanks!

[Paul Timmins]

@Ryan K. 

Welcome. Fill in the foundation below.

Locate and attend 3 different local REIA club meetings great place to meet people gather resources and info. Here you will meet wholesalers who provide deals and rehabbers.

Two Great reads, I bought both J. Scott The Book on Flipping Houses,The Book on Estimating ReHab Costshttp://www.biggerpockets.com/flippingbook

To find out about an area go to IREM.org search for ARM certified property managers. Call 5 ask them what parts of the city they like/dislike and why. Ask them what they see expenses running per category per unit. What do they see them selling for per unit, what is the market occupancy rate. What are the market rents? Ask them if they know anything coming up for sale. Great way to pick up some good info and possibly a deal.

You might consider Niche or Specialized Housing like student housing. Rents can be 2-4 times more. Remember you don't have to own a property to control it.

Download BP’s newest book here some good due diligence in Chapter 10. Real Estate Rewind Starting over

http://www.biggerpockets.com/files/user/brandonatbp/file/real-estate-rewind-a-biggerpockets-community-book

Good Luck

Paul