Looking For Areas of Operation

[Brendan Perlee]

I am a potential investor that has been looking to get into the rehab/flip game for a few months. While some may say I have "analysis paralysis" I cannot seem to make one major decision: which geographic location should I focus on?

I live in the New Jersey suburbs of New York City where properties are terribly expensive. My parents recently retired to the Sarasota, Florida area where properties are much more affordable. My dad has agreed to help me out and act as my eyes and ears should I decide to focus on the Sarasota area. I cannot shake the feeling that I need to be within driving distance of my operating area, however. I also feel much less confident about the strength of the Florida market vs. the New Jersey market.

Are there any seasoned veterans out there that can offer me some advice on which route I should take? Do I need to just bite the bullet and learn to operate in the high priced market that is New Jersey?

Thanks.