Another new member from NYC

[Anthony Espinal]

Hi everyone, my name is Anthony and I currently live in Astoria Queens. I've been lurking on the site for the last few months and listening to the podcast/reading blogs and posts. I'm the guy who watches WAY too much TV (only HGTV) and I am desperate to get into the RE game. It would be a life long dream to be able to renovate houses.

To break in, I've put a lot of thought into house hacking here in Astoria. I've also put thought into possibly private lending a couple smaller projects to build up more money to buy a place in Astoria.

I'm not against venturing out of NYC for investing, but I will not venture out of Astoria to live. My small family and I (wife and son) absolutely love the area and while its insanely expensive I cant see myself raising my son anywhere else.

A little background: I'm an Afghanistan War vet so I have access to the VA Loan which I haven't used yet, I also have (what I think) is a good amount of money saved up.

I need some help and direction. Should I go the private lending route to build more money? Should I just right into house hacking? Id appreciate any advice/help from you guys.

PS: I'm Sorry if my post is all over the place, I'm just really anxious to get the ball rolling.