Advice for beginner

[Jacob Butler]

I'm pretty new to the investing world, I have a few small mutual funds but nothing major. I really like the idea of real estate investing, and I'm looking to get started. My situation is a bit complex, I'm just about to leave the military, and buy my first house utilizing a VA loan, my current plan is to buy a duplex live in one side and rent the other. I am married with two children so as much as i normally love risk ive been trying to scale it back a little, i was just wondering if anyone had any advice for me before i begin? (note I'm moving to the Newark OH region, and plan to start expanding my portfolio around there)

[Kerry Baird]

As an additional bit of information, we can use the VA loans for 1-4 units.

We are nearing the 24 year mark in service (I served 6 active, 4 reserve. Hubby continues as active enlisted). I think I just found house #30 this week. All of the previous loans, save our current owner occupied house, were non VA loans. We saved them for last, thinking that we'd use "easy" conventional mortgage money first.

I just want to encourage you.  This can be a slow and steady wealth accumulation game.  No need to get risky.  Just set a goal to buy one rental that cash flows a couple hundred dollars over the mortgage and expenses.  And then pick up another when you've saved up again.  And another.  

All the best~