All Forum Posts by: Brendan Novisky

@Nathan Gesner

I have heard of them but didn't think to start there.  Thanks for the idea!

I am looking for a recommendation for a property manager in the Columbus, Ohio area who someone has had a good experience working with. I am in the market to buy a 4-plex so finding a manager who also actively sells properties would be a plus. I have made a list so far and plan to interview each but I feel like an interview can have scripted answers while personal experience speaks volumes. Any leads would be greatly appreciated!

@Kathleen Bassett

Thanks for taking the time to post. I haven't looked extensively there because it adds a couple more hours to the travel time. I have started to consider looking there because I have seen several posts that James Wise has on properties. The idea of partnering with his company (or someone) on a deal to start out is starting to be more appealing since it would be easier to learn the process. The possible downside is that would be more of a turnkey experience and I am not convinced that is a way to grow efficiently.

@Mike D'Arrigo

Thank you for the insight. The paralysis is partly a personal life change and the 6 month window is when I will have more freedom to spend investment capital but i am also starting to get shiny object syndrome with pinning down my target area which is slowing down the process. I will look into your website and the podcasts you mentioned!

@Brandon Schlichter

Thanks for the reply and your perspective. I am not dead set on Columbus, I have been looking in Chillicothe as well since it would be easier to keep an eye on with it being closer. There are a few things that make me nervous about starting here though:

• Negative population changes (although small) and appreciation over time as well as lack of major business or job drivers that will bring more people over time.
• Market rents were relatively low when I was looking (although I may just be terrible at analyzing this)
• I do not plan to live in Chillicothe permanently, and finding a way to manage long distance without any property managers in the area means I will have an issue when I move.

So although I may find a property that cash flows, I may be stuck with a property that won't sell or sells for less than I purchase it for. 

I am a new investor and have been studying on Bigger Pockets and the basic mls sites for about 5 months. I live in Chillicothe, OH and would like to buy my first buy and hold withe next 6 months. I would like to get into small apartment buildings or 4-units but since I work full time and am just getting started, I have decided to start slow with a SFH or two to get the basics down).

I was wondering if anyone could share their criteria for choosing a specific market because I am starting to feel analysis paralysis kick in. I would like to avoid the c-d areas and have focused most of my search in galloway, grove city, hilliard, westerville, and worthington. I have found a high percentage of vacancy (20+%) in some of these areas as well as a low percentage of renters vs home owners. 

In essence, what are the most important factors when choosing a neighborhood and what is background noise? Thanks in advance for any input!

Brendan

It is interesting that, despite the large pool of possibilities, you guys are mentioning the same several resources. It really leaves the impression that those mentioned are far above the alternatives. I have requested a consult with John Hyre so far and will definitely keep Dana and Pariser and Buddy Marks in mind. 

@Phillip Cutting 

My experience with title companies is limited as well, so I am wondering when you mention First American Title company, in what ways have they been helpful to you?