Newbie from DC/Balt area.

[Mark Yu]

Been lurking on here a couple of months... Reading the FAQs/Forums, etc. (haven't quite hit the podcasts yet) and such. Really feeling the "paralysis by analysis" thing. But hoping to pull the trigger starting in 2015. Still debating on the local vs. non-local thing.

I think the biggest deterrent to investing locally are all the stories I hear about how tenant friendly the state of MD is.

Outside of that, looking at Indianapolis, and San Antonio (via Home Union). and maybe Richmond in between.

Any input/advice will be appreciated!

[Tony Tran]

Welcome to BP, Mark! 

I live in CA and have not purchase a primary or investment property in my home state. All of my investment are out of state.

Many of my Californian family and friends thought I was crazy for buying anything away from home where I cannot keep an eye on. I ran all the numbers. I looked at the prospects (locals, municipal codes, crime rates, job trends, etc.). I ended with 10 rental units in 2014.

 It can be a bit scary at first (hence the "analysis paralysis"), but once you pull that trigger. Things will be easier. 

Best,

Tony