Real Estate Agent · Blue Springs, MO · Member since 2015 · 22 posts · 7 votes
Hey BP community,
My names Austin Walters, I'm 23, and stumbled upon BP from a random Youtube video in the sidebar, (you may have guessed it the BP podcasts). I'm really excited to dive into REI especially with a community as strong as this. As far as background, I am a college student still, work two jobs and am a student of REI as well! I don't have any deals under my belt however, I'm looking to do just that. I'm a bit undecided on what small market is ideal investing in for me. My long term strategies are to master the game of buy and holds, who doesn't love passive income!? In addition, I also find wholesaling to be quite enticing, but really I'm open to all paths of the REI world. I guess it's also worth mentioning, this summer I plan on completing and acquiring my real estate license. I would love to meet up and network, identify opportunities and GROW, who's with me?
Turn key provider · San Jose, CA · Member since 2010 · 4k+ posts · 3k+ votes
10y
@Austin WaltersKudo's for getting interested in real estate investment at a young age. You'll have a big head start over most. I'm curious why you said you're undecided on what small market is ideal. What do you consider a small market why are you looking for a small market? Personally, I think larger markets growing populations have more diverse economies and less risk. Kansas City is a great market and you're fortunate to have a market like that in your own backyard. Some of the smaller suburbs like Raytown, Grandview and Belton are particularly good but these are still considered the Kansas City metro area. Good luck and feel free to reach out and I'll e happy to share my thoughts and perspectives. You might also find the podcasts that you can find on my website helpful as a new investor.
Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice. And you get the benefit of having over 100 past ones to catch up on.
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 (cash buyers). Find them through Google and meetup.com
Consider checking out HUD homes for small multi's owner occupied gets first crack.
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
@Mike D'ArrigoWhat I met by small market was the exact area to invest for me e.g. grandview, independence, etc. I haven't entirely thought out which in particular but I definitely want to invest in my vicinity. Thanks for the awesome tips by the way! I will definitely give your podcasts a go!
@Paul TimminsMan you are a lifesaver, every resource imaginable in your post! Thanks so much for your input!
Turn key provider · San Jose, CA · Member since 2010 · 4k+ posts · 3k+ votes
10y
@Austin Waltersthat makes sense. Grandview and Independence have smaller populations but all part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. Those are very good investment areas. You just want to stay away from some of the north parts of Independence.
Investor · Blue Springs, MO · Member since 2015 · 6 posts · 0 votes
10y
Austin, welcome. I'm pretty new to this also. My in-laws have been in it awhile, and i have one property in Blue Springs that I really have had good luck with so far. I'm looking at adding 2 or 3 single family houses this year. I focused on Blue Springs mostly due to the schools and because its close to home. Lee's Summit is good. If you are looking at Independence, I suggest you stay east of Lee's Summit Rd, because that is the boundary for the Blue Springs School District.