Former Athlete Starting in Real Estate

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Cam PorterPro Member
OP
Member since 2026 · 27 posts · 23 votes
1mo
@Ashish Acharya Really helpful Ashish! Thanks for this input!
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Travis TimmonsPro Member

Rental Property Investor · Ellsworth, ME · Member since 2021 · 1k+ posts · 2k+ votes

1mo

I'll second the buying a good property vs. buying a "good deal." I like Charlie Munger quote - "I'd rather pay a fair price for a good asset than a great price for a bad one."

Buy the property that you want to own the most 10 years from now.

Cam PorterPro Member
OP
Member since 2026 · 27 posts · 23 votes
1mo
@Travis Timmons This is great advice Travis! Really appreciate this!
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Mike Klarman

Specialist · NJ · Member since 2022 · 1k+ posts · 649 votes

1mo

Understand this, most deals that come to you will not be a home run. I don't care what number you see in the spreadsheet or on the napkin.

Then you realize, home runs do not come to you. You create them with your sourcing strategies, your rehab strategies, your financing strategies.

Buying from a wholesaler or from MLS and using hard money with a draw process is risky. Why? You bought high, your debt cost is high, you're chasing high comps, you're rehab is high. You're margin for error is nil.

Getting started is rough, most of the time people have that 30k - 50k range and it can go, No doubt, to "education".

Yesterday, I bought a 90k house from an Auction. 5 beds, 3 baths. 2200 square feet. It's worth as is right now 130k - 150k depending on the inside, but given what the outside looks like the inside should be ok.

If I am Brrring this, then I get to start at a 90k cost basis. It needs 80k rehab let's say because I'm plugged in and do not need a GC. That's 170k project cost. The ARV is 300k. I'm under 60% project cost to ARV.

But maybe I sell it for a quick 150k and make 60k in a few months and that investor now starts at 150k and they need to put 100k in cause they are out of state and need a GC. Their project cost is 250k.

That's the difference between winning/growing and floundering/losing.

Cam PorterPro Member
OP
Member since 2026 · 27 posts · 23 votes
1mo
@Mike Klarman Mike you broke this down very clear! Makes a ton of sense. Really appreciate the feedback.
0 Reply

Tabish Masood

Investor · Sterling, VA · Member since 2026 · 89 posts · 48 votes

1mo

Hey Cam,

Congrats on putting in the work before jumping in — that foundation will serve you well.

I've been investing for years now, including buy-and-holds in Cincinnati and Toledo, so I can speak directly to the Ohio market. A few thoughts:

You'll know the right deal when you see it. After enough underwriting reps, the numbers either work or they don't — trust the process you've built, not just your gut.

Ignore the noise. You're going to get advice from a hundred different people, half of it contradictory. Pick a strategy that fits your capital, risk tolerance, and time, and commit to it instead of chasing whatever's trending.

A few paths worth considering:

BRRRR — works well if you can build the right contractor/lender relationships early (this is where most people either save or lose money)
Traditional buy-and-hold off the MLS — simpler to execute, less operationally intensive, good for a first deal while you're still building systems
Ohio in general is a solid market for cash flow — I've had good experience in both Cincinnati and Toledo specifically

Happy to connect and talk through what you're seeing in Chicago vs. Ohio markets.

[email protected]614-300-7535

Cam PorterPro Member
OP
Member since 2026 · 27 posts · 23 votes
1mo
@Tabish Masood Really appreciate this reply Tabish! Would love to connect further!
0 Reply

Jimmy LieuBusiness Member

Real Estate Agent · Columbus, OH · Member since 2019 · 3k+ posts · 2k+ votes

1mo

Quote from @Cam Porter:

Hi everyone,

I’m a former Northwestern football player looking to get started in real estate investing and build a strong long-term portfolio. Over the past several months, I’ve been taking the education side seriously by reading books, studying underwriting, analyzing deals, and working toward my Illinois real estate license. I’ve really enjoyed the learning process and feel like I’ve built a solid foundation.

That said, I’m finding that taking the first step is the hardest part.

I know there’s a big difference between studying real estate and actually buying your first property. I’m trying to avoid analysis paralysis while also making sure I don’t rush into a bad deal.

At this point, I’m open to learning about different investing strategies and asset types. My main goal is to continue learning, gain real-world experience, and build a portfolio the right way over the long term.

For those of you who have already been through this stage:

What finally gave you the confidence to buy your first property?

What mistakes should I avoid?

Is there anything you wish someone had told you before getting started?

I’m also looking to grow my network. If anyone is in the Chicago area, Cincinnati, or is simply willing to connect and share their experience, I’d really appreciate the opportunity to learn from you.

Thanks in advance. I look forward to hearing your advice and hopefully connecting with some of you.

Welcome to BP, Cam! It sounds like you've already done more preparation than a lot of people do before buying their first deal. What finally gave me the confidence was realizing there wasn't going to be a point where I felt 100% ready. At some point you just have to make sure the numbers work, have enough reserves, and take a calculated risk. One thing I wish someone had stressed more is that your first property doesn't need to be perfect. It's there to teach you the process of inspections, financing, closing, managing a rehab if needed, and working with tenants. Those lessons are worth a lot. Since you mentioned Chicago and Cincinnati, I'd also take a look at Columbus. I moved here in 2020 and have been investing here ever since. The combination of population growth, major employers like Intel, Google, Amazon, Honda/LG, and Nationwide, along with landlord-friendly laws and affordable entry points, has made it a great market. There are still houses in the $120k-$180k range that can produce solid cash flow, and I've seen rentals purchased around $120k renting for about $1,550 a month. Keep underwriting deals every day, build relationships with local investors, and don't wait for the "perfect" opportunity because it usually doesn't exist. Happy to connect and answer any questions you have!

Jimmy Lieu, Red 1 Realty4.9120 Reviews

Cam PorterPro Member
OP
Member since 2026 · 27 posts · 23 votes
1mo
@Jimmy Lieu Jimmy I've also heard a ton of great things about Columbus. Thanks for the reply. Would love to connect further.
0 Reply

Laurence J.Pro Member

Rental Property Investor · Chicago IL · Member since 2013 · 25 posts · 39 votes

1mo

@Cam Porter - I'm really glad to see how many replies you're getting. And so I'll just be another to welcome you to BiggerPockets and the broader real estate investor community. I can share some of my personal journey though, which also takes place in Chicago.

I talked for years and years about buying a property before I ever got one. My first deal never would have happened, actually, had the seller not been a friend and begged me to buy his 3-unit rental in North Center. There was just too much fear to jump in until someone I trusted literally forced me into the game. That was nearly 20 years ago, and I have never regretted that first step (even if someone else was pushing my feet for me). I've since bought 5 additional properties and have landed currently at 22 long-term rentals.

So it's hard to answer what gave me the confidence other than to say it was trusted people around me. The big thing is that I didn't believe in the numbers and the process. I always thought I was missing something. But in the end, if you run the analysis through a calculator, you'll have a good sense of it makes sense.

There are many mistakes that can be made, almost every single one is recoverable, so don't let that stop you too much. If anything, you should feel confident that the property makes money and don't do your first deal based on speculation.

I am in the Chicago area, as are all my properties, DM me anytime if you want to grab coffee.

And btw, @Cam Porter - we released a pretty cool feature if you log into your BiggerPockets account that'll allow you to connect with investors near you, based on a map.

Cory St. Esprit

Investor · Pittsburgh, PA · Member since 2023 · 108 posts · 57 votes

1mo

I would be careful leading with being a NW football player as it just seems showy to me. It would be a turnoff to me. You're a regular guy trying to learn the business. Lead with that

Cam PorterPro Member
OP
Member since 2026 · 27 posts · 23 votes
1mo
@Cory St. Esprit Thanks for the feedback!
0 Reply

Cam PorterPro Member

OP

Member since 2026 · 27 posts · 23 votes

1mo

@Cassie Peterson Thanks so much Cassie! Definitely agree that your network can really help early in the investing process. Will look into the virtual training as well!

Cassie Peterson
Real Estate Coach · Member since 2026 · 6 posts · 1 vote
3w
You’re welcome, Cam! You’re already doing a lot of the right things by learning underwriting and analyzing deals before jumping in. Keep building those connections, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you ever want to talk through what you’re learning. I’m looking forward to following your journey!
0 Reply

Mark Cruse

Investor · Fort Washington, MD · Member since 2014 · 1k+ posts · 1k+ votes

1mo

I have not read through everything; however, I tried to post earlier but didn't come through. So much great advice all over the place. As stated, I'm sure, what you are doing now is epic. Tons of knowledge. You say you want to grow a portfolio. First, you have to nail down how to get there. Do want a turnkey? Do you want the get a distressed property and add value? Do you want to learn wholesaling, bird dogging or flipping? Maybe you just want to get it from your network. Once you nail down that, refine you craft in getting there. One of the main things in my book you need to know, if becoming a landlord with no property manager is know your area. Know everything about the community you are serving. Understand the culture and treat them with respect. That goes a very long way. Good luck. I want to see you win.

[email protected]859-443-4952

Cam PorterPro Member
OP
Member since 2026 · 27 posts · 23 votes
1mo
@Mark Cruse Appreciate this a ton Mark! Great advice. Would love to connect further!
1 Reply

Sam McCormackBusiness Member

Real Estate Agent · Cincinnati, OH/NKY · Member since 2021 · 1k+ posts · 833 votes

1mo

Quote from @Cam Porter:

Hi everyone,

I’m a former Northwestern football player looking to get started in real estate investing and build a strong long-term portfolio. Over the past several months, I’ve been taking the education side seriously by reading books, studying underwriting, analyzing deals, and working toward my Illinois real estate license. I’ve really enjoyed the learning process and feel like I’ve built a solid foundation.

That said, I’m finding that taking the first step is the hardest part.

I know there’s a big difference between studying real estate and actually buying your first property. I’m trying to avoid analysis paralysis while also making sure I don’t rush into a bad deal.

At this point, I’m open to learning about different investing strategies and asset types. My main goal is to continue learning, gain real-world experience, and build a portfolio the right way over the long term.

For those of you who have already been through this stage:

What finally gave you the confidence to buy your first property?

What mistakes should I avoid?

Is there anything you wish someone had told you before getting started?

I’m also looking to grow my network. If anyone is in the Chicago area, Cincinnati, or is simply willing to connect and share their experience, I’d really appreciate the opportunity to learn from you.

Thanks in advance. I look forward to hearing your advice and hopefully connecting with some of you.

Hey Cam, i'm in Greater Cincinnati, shoot me a DM if you'd like to talk more sometime

Sam McCormack Realtor

View Page

[email protected]614-892-9184

Mike PaolucciBusiness Member

Realtor · Columbus Cleveland Dayton, OH · Member since 2022 · 490 posts · 549 votes

1mo

Quote from @Cam Porter:

Hi everyone,

I’m a former Northwestern football player looking to get started in real estate investing and build a strong long-term portfolio. Over the past several months, I’ve been taking the education side seriously by reading books, studying underwriting, analyzing deals, and working toward my Illinois real estate license. I’ve really enjoyed the learning process and feel like I’ve built a solid foundation.

That said, I’m finding that taking the first step is the hardest part.

I know there’s a big difference between studying real estate and actually buying your first property. I’m trying to avoid analysis paralysis while also making sure I don’t rush into a bad deal.

At this point, I’m open to learning about different investing strategies and asset types. My main goal is to continue learning, gain real-world experience, and build a portfolio the right way over the long term.

For those of you who have already been through this stage:

What finally gave you the confidence to buy your first property?

What mistakes should I avoid?

Is there anything you wish someone had told you before getting started?

I’m also looking to grow my network. If anyone is in the Chicago area, Cincinnati, or is simply willing to connect and share their experience, I’d really appreciate the opportunity to learn from you.

Thanks in advance. I look forward to hearing your advice and hopefully connecting with some of you.

Hey Cam.

First one is always the hardest since it's jumping into the unknown. Ultimately, it's a lot like the first day of practice and getting the first hit jitters out of your system. After that it all starts rolling in and you'll be able to navigate it.

When I bought my first one in 2021, I had realized that I was capping out in my current job and that nothing was going to give me the freedom I was looking for. It was kind of a "screw it" type of moment and I never looked back.

Mistakes - Make sure you vet your tenants, property managers and PM's effectively. While there is no way to guarantee anything 100%, you'll want to make sure you work with people you're comfortable working with. Talk to multiple people and call their references. When it comes to tenants, make sure they give you 3 months of paystubs, last 3 landlords and call the oldest one first, working your way to most recent.

Told me before getting started - get ready for a ride. It'll have plenty of speed bumps and isn't all that gurus crack it up to be but you'll be fine. Just keep pushing through the adversity (just like the field) and make good, reasonable decisions with the information you have. Having a mentor will also help out a lot.

Happy to answer any questions you might have.

Reafco - Mike Paolucci 512 Reviews

Linda Schultz

Chicago, IL · Member since 2026 · 3 posts · 0 votes

1mo

Cam - sometimes it's easier to jump if you have a team around you that's been through what you have. Reach out to a local investor meet-up. There are several good ones in the Chicagoland area - people that attend have been through the same thing you have and can help!

Good Luck!

Matt DominoPro Member

Member since 2026 · 1 post · 0 votes

1mo

Cam, you've gotten a lot of helpful responses here but I just wanted to send a quick note welcoming you to the BP community!

Ken M.

Investor · Get yourself trained before doing something inadvisable. · Member since 2024 · 3k+ posts · 1k+ votes

1h

Quote from @Cam Porter:

Hi everyone,

I’m a former Northwestern football player looking to get started in real estate investing and build a strong long-term portfolio. Over the past several months, I’ve been taking the education side seriously by reading books, studying underwriting, analyzing deals, and working toward my Illinois real estate license. I’ve really enjoyed the learning process and feel like I’ve built a solid foundation.

That said, I’m finding that taking the first step is the hardest part.

I know there’s a big difference between studying real estate and actually buying your first property. I’m trying to avoid analysis paralysis while also making sure I don’t rush into a bad deal.

At this point, I’m open to learning about different investing strategies and asset types. My main goal is to continue learning, gain real-world experience, and build a portfolio the right way over the long term.

For those of you who have already been through this stage:

What finally gave you the confidence to buy your first property?

What mistakes should I avoid?

Is there anything you wish someone had told you before getting started?

I’m also looking to grow my network. If anyone is in the Chicago area, Cincinnati, or is simply willing to connect and share their experience, I’d really appreciate the opportunity to learn from you.

Thanks in advance. I look forward to hearing your advice and hopefully connecting with some of you.

Your comment "I know there’s a big difference between studying real estate and actually buying your first property. I’m trying to avoid analysis paralysis while also making sure I don’t rush into a bad deal." is like saying there is difference between watching the Seahawks and being one.

The forunate part is that learning to invest isn't brutal on the body.

I provide a spreadsheet I hand out on request (free) that explains the different types of investing and it amazes people how much difference there is. Some things will make the experience what you want it to be and somethings are brutal when you're not prepared. But you've got to go training to learn the plays.