All Forum Posts by: James M.

Thanks for the replies.  I am very green, so I would appreciate a patient realtor.  I've only started doing my homework, and will have lots of beginner-type questions....  I'm looking in north santa barbara county, lompoc/etc.

Looking for a realtor that would work with a newbie investor.  Live in SB, but looking to purchase multi family in some of the cheaper areas of the central coast to diversify my portfolio and get my skin in the game.  Any advice or referrals are appreciated.

Yes, I've looked north somewhat - Lompoc, Santa Ynez, Santa Maria, etc.  Prices are a little lower, but I'd like to live in my first property, and I need to live to close to work in Goleta.

But I guess something has got to give..

Hello,

I'm a young (late 20's) IT professional looking to expand my investments beyond index funds, but faced with a bit of sticker shock when seeing real estate prices in my local area.  I've always had an interest in investing in small 2-4 unit MF buildings, but don't see how it's possible in my area for a new investor.  I've heard the majority of sales in the area are purchased with cash, and while I have a decent amount of liquid cash available, it would be a stretch for me to make a 20% down payment on anything here besides a manufactured home or a condo.

Looking forward to learning how one can get started in what seems to be a very crowded market.