All Forum Posts by: Grace Wang

@Account Closed Love it! There are a few great books to start with: (1) Set for Life by Scott Trench (2) The House Hacking Strategy by Craig Curelop (3) Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. These will give you a bird's eye view of real estate investing and mindset.

Some awesome podcasts I'd start with: (1) BiggerPockets Rookie (2) BiggerPockets Money (3) The FI Team Podcast

I would also follow MoneyHoneyRachel on instagram.

Hope that helps!

@Kristi Marie Meyer That's definitely a tough situation! The way I look at it is if you're going to stress over money without the help of the sale of your current home, then you should sell. Let's say you don't sell your home. Will you guys have enough income to take care of daycare costs and other living expenses? Will the lack of sale proceeds put any unnecessary stress on you and your husbands relationship?  If not selling your house jeopardizes relationships and well being, then you should sell it instead :)

Have you explored the possibilities of house hacking and putting low % down on a property in Ohio? Would it be possible to find a duplex or a SFR with a mother-in-law suite to help offset your housing costs? if you house hacked, you not only get to save on down payment, but you also get to save (and ideally cashflow) on living expenses. Live in that property for one year, move out, rent it, then do it again!

If your family is willing to delay the nice house by a couple of years, you could take advantage of the move by starting to get some rental properties under your belt. 

I see both pros & cons of selling & not selling. I'm sure that either route you go, you guys will be okay :)

@Nicholas Llapur I'd agree with Eric & Brenden about house hacking. You need a place to live no matter what, and if you're going to pay somebody, it might as well be towards your own property versus someone else's. Ideally, house hacking will allow you to entirely cover your mortgage, but having it partially covered is also good as long as it doesn't exceed what you're currently paying in rent.  

Depending on the layouts in ATL, strategy may change. Here in Denver, MIL suites, AirBNB, and rent by the room are popular strategies. 

I'd recommend not getting caught up on timing the market!

@Kamaldeen Fagbayi Yes you are! What strategy are you thinking you'll get into?

Hi! I'm looking for some thoughts of those who have experience with LTR and/or STR in the St Pete/Tampa (& surrounding areas). Which areas are good for what? In an ideal world, I'd be able to find success in both LTR and STR. I'm open to other areas, but mainly curious about the neighborhoods and towns set up with the infrastructure for growth and development.

Additionally, are there any towns that especially great for house hacking?

**EDIT: SFR and small multifamily only. Not too interested in condos or townhomes!

@Rafael Nava Hey Rafael! One option is starting off house hacking, as it can save you $$ on living expenses, but also teach you the ins & outs of landlording.

A second option is to do a live-in flip and then house hack it THEN BRRRR so you get a taste of each. Really your strategy will come down to your comfortability, time/effort, and amount of cash available.

Once you have these things set you'll have a better idea of strategy. Off you go from there!

Hey @Matthew F.! From an agent's perspective, I'd be very transparent that you're interviewing multiple realtors. Once you've narrowed down the one you want to work with, let him/her know "hey I'd love to work with you".

If you are looking for an investor-friendly agent, here are some questions to ask:

• - How often do you work with real estate investors? (gauges experience)
• - What are the best strategies for maximum ROI in XYZ City? (demonstrates investment knowledge)
• - What services do you offer when working with investors? (shows how well-networked he/she is with contractors, CPA, property management, etc)
• - What does your investment portfolio look like? (shows if they have a similar mindset to you)

These are obviously just a few examples, but a great place to start! I know i'm not in your market but I'd be happy to answer more questions if you want to DM me\

@Account Closed Have you considered house hacking to minimize living expenses (assuming you pay monthly rent), and then starting the trucking company? I would find an investor-friendly real estate agent to guide you through areas that are most suitable for your goals.

Once you're saving on your largest expense (housing!), you'll be able to deploy more time and money into the trucking business AND you'll be learning the basics of landlording, property management, etc. There are many directions you can go, but time is precious -- once you decide on a business strategy, go for it!

Hey @Kent Rieves - have you read "the house hacking strategy" by Craig curelop? Great resource. He is also holding a virtual meetup this Wednesday. Feel free to message me and I can send you the link. Maybe there will be others from Houston in attendance :)

@Hector Salas Hey Hector, I would recommend reaching out to a local real estate investor-friendly agent to discuss the best ways to house hack in your area, and if there are certain neighborhoods that are better for it.

From there, you'll have a better idea of the types of strategies you;d like to implement on your first property! There's of course a lot more to it, but talking to an agent as the first step is a great place to start!