Newb from Philadelphia - hope to use VA loan for first Multi Fam

[Antonio Jimenez]

Hi there, 

My name is Tony and live in Philadelphia.  I am an absolute newbie to the real estate scene.  My main gig is selling Telecommunication & IT equipment and services and would love to supplement my income with some real estate. 

I am hoping to find a multi-family property for my first deal. Hopefully in the Allentown, Bethlehem, Easton area or Philadelphia.  

I heard about Bigger Pockets from a family member that owns several properties - and is sharing his knowledge with me.  I am currently reading Brandon Turner's  The Book on Investing in Real Estate with No (and Low) Money Down. (There really should be an acronym for that title) and started listening to the podcast on my commute. The combination has me motivated. 

Oh, and pardon me if I am oversharing now, but I am eligible for a VA loan, and any first-time buyer perks, and got "Good" credit according to Credit Karma. I could likely get together a few thousand bucks need be - but based on my current reading I'd like to keep my money!

I would love any input on how to get started on this journey, agents in the area, contractors, I will take all the help I can get. 

Thanks for having me and I look forward to learning from the lot of ya'.

-Tony

[Brandon L.]

Hello! @Antonio Jimenez

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 love answering questions if you have any! Good Luck :)