28 y/o Investor starting in DFW - looking for Advice + Connections

[Carlos Davila]

Hey Everyone! 

I'm 28 and currently planning my next 5-year plan to start and grow my real estate portfolio up to 12+ cash flowing LTRs with a potential mix of STRs.

I have between $80,000-$100,000 saved, with strong 800+ credit and minimal debt (can be cleared if needed). My strategy is to start with small single-family homes or  a duplex if the right deal were to pop up for one in my search. My long-term goal is to build a portfolio of 12+ cash-flowing units in the next 5-7 years eventually transitioning into bigger multifamily deals once I have more experience. My goal is slowly transition of my 9-5 income to real estate income and build long term wealth through cash-flow and appreciation.

Right now, I'm focused on learning as much as possible.

I'm especially looking for:

Advice from people who've house hacked or invested in

Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex

Connections to investor-friendly agents, lenders, and general inspectors/RE Attorneys

Any tips or tools that helped you build confidence early in your journey

If you've got insight or experience in the DFW market (especially Fort Worth/Arlington), I'd love to hear from you.
Thanks in advance!

[Melissa Justice]

@Carlos Davila,

Hey Carlos! You're setting yourself up for success with strong credit, disciplined savings, and a clear long-term vision. Well done!

If you're open to it, you might consider diversifying outside of Texas for better cash flow and affordability. Many investors in your position start building their portfolios in Midwest or Southeast markets where entry prices are lower, rent-to-price ratios are strong, and competition is less intense than in DFW.

Markets like South Bend, IN, Memphis, TN, and Akron, OH are popular for turnkey single-family rentals with solid cash flow and experienced local property management teams in place — perfect for building passive income while still working a W2 job.

Here’s how you might approach it:
-Start with a turnkey property to learn the ropes without major rehab risk
-Use your capital to acquire 1–2 solid, performing assets with 20–25% down
-Leverage local boots-on-the-ground teams (agents, PMs, contractors) already operating in these markets
-Focus on cash-on-cash returns of 7%+ and neighborhoods with stable tenant demand

You're clearly ready to take action — now it's just about putting the right systems and people in place and working with a great team!

Wishing you much success!

Melissa Justice

Investment Strategist at Rent to Retirement