New Investor in Southwest Chicago

[Eric Sanders]

Hey there BP Community,

My name is Eric and am trying to get the ball rolling on this real estate investing thing. I'm originally from Beverly, Chicago near the southwest border, but recently moved to Tinley Park once I finished school this past May. For the past 6 months, I've read a number books/articles/blogs and have just begun listening to podcasts as well, and am hoping to learn as much as I need to so I can acquire my first multi-family property before my lease ends in August.

I'm looking in several areas I'm familiar with (Beverly, Mt. Greenwood, Tinley Park, areas in between) to buy and hold small multi-family properties, with "add-value" opportunity, but am willing to look at single family homes as well, seeing that the multi-family properties aren't as readily available as I once thought. I've reached out to a couple realtors, and am already pre-approved for SFH & multi-family purchases (through FHA).

Before I begin making offers, are there any other steps I can take to see that I'm as best prepared as can be?

Also, if anyone has any realtor / contractor / CPA / attorney suggestions that are familiar with investing and the area, feel free to let me know

Thank you in advance, BP community, for helping me get going!

[Brandon L.]

Hello! @Eric Sanders

Welcome to BP, and congratulations on making the decision to invest in your future via real estate.

I have written a few blog posts that may help you get started here on BP, and with your investing. Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.

First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:

https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp

The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:

https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciated

The last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent. There are many agents out there, but it’s important to choose the right one.

https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52724-im-new-to-investing-how-do-i-find-an-investor-friendly-agent

I have other blogs that may be helpful here on BP in my personal blog that you can check out. Good Luck :)