All Forum Posts by: Kerlous Tadres
Kerlous Tadres has started 1 posts and replied 930 times.
Post: New Member Diving into the STR Space
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Hey @Mark Wagner,
Make sure your numbers make sense, factor in cleaning, vacancy, maintenance, and management. Always check local STR rules before buying. Optimize operations to save time and costs, and small upgrades like smart locks or quality linens can noticeably boost your income. Track occupancy, rates, and cash flow constantly to stay ahead.
Post: Looking for someone with experience who bought/owned out of state
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Hey @Joshua Piche!
From my experience, Ohio is a solid market for cash flow, especially in Columbus, Dayton, and Toledo. I’ve flipped properties, own rentals, and helped a lot of out-of-state investors get started here. I’d recommend focusing on neighborhoods with strong rental demand and appreciation potential. Having a reliable local property manager is key since you won’t be around. I can also share tips on rents, strategies, and what works best for cash flow.
Post: Seeking advice for first-timer
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Hey @Graham Kim,
I’d recommend going move-in ready or with light cosmetic rehab for your first deal. This keeps it manageable, lets you learn the ropes, and still allows for cash flow. Heavy rehab is usually too much for a first-timer.
Post: Just trying to learn for now
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Hey Young, from my experience, turnkey multifamily is great if you want mostly hands-off cash flow. But making the math work can be tricky with higher prices and expenses. I’d recommend looking for deals where you can add some value, even small fixes that boost rent and return. Always run the numbers carefully, factor in vacancy, maintenance, and management costs, so you know the deal really makes sense.
Post: New investor looking at out of state deals
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Hey Matthew, every market you mentioned has potential. The key is learning how to analyze deals well and focus on finding good properties in better neighborhoods. That’s where you get the best mix of cash flow and appreciation. Take your time, run solid numbers, and keep an eye on the local rental demand and comps. Starting with one market to build experience is always smart.
Post: How to get to the next level of RE investing
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
That’s a smart approach. With 4-5 cash-flowing rentals, I’d recommend refinancing to pull equity for bigger deals like multi-family properties, which can boost your cash flow faster. You can also look into portfolio loans to simplify financing. Stick to buy-and-hold if flipping isn’t your focus, and watch your cash flow and reserves as you scale.
Where are you investing? Some markets make scaling easier.
Post: University Student looking to broaden knowledge– Advice Welcome
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Quote from @Andrew Fletcher:
Good evening,
My name is Andrew, I’m 22 years old, and I wanted to take a moment to reintroduce myself to the community. I’m currently a university student with one year left, studying and working in the healthcare field. My military background has instilled in me a strong sense of discipline, motivation, and a willingness to learn—qualities I now channel into my pursuit of real estate investing.
I’ve been following BiggerPockets since I was about 17, dedicating the past several years to expanding my real estate knowledge through countless podcasts and several books, including Rich Dad Poor Dad, The Millionaire Real Estate Investor, Section 8 Bible, and Inc. Yourself. I’m always on the lookout for my next great read to further my education.
For years, I’ve been on the sidelines—watching others live the dream I aspire to—while learning the importance of networking, something I’m now making a more intentional effort to pursue. I’m eager to become more active in the investing and networking space, even though I’m not yet in a position to purchase a property on my own. I have been researching out-of-state investing markets like Columbus, Indianapolis, and Canton, but I still have much to learn about analyzing markets and these specific areas. I am interested in single-family or multi-family homes with a positive cash flow, but more importantly, I am looking to get my foot into the market and further my education by starting my investing journey. I will always have a lot to learn in this business, but I do believe my next step is my education is finally getting off the sidelines and learning firsthand.
Like many aspiring investors, my biggest hurdle has been saving for a down payment, despite living frugally. I have been able to save a good amount while in university for a down payment, but not a full 20% +CC down payment. I've also been exploring creative financing strategies, as I may not yet have the qualifying DTI ratio or two full years of stable employment history. Still, I'm determined to find a path forward, leveraging my growing knowledge, resourcefulness, and willingness to work hard to make my first deal happen and to work on connecting with like-minded people who may have once been in my position.
Post: New investor looking to connect.
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Quote from @Mario Madero:
Hello everyone! My name is Mario, and I'm from Chicago. I'm new to real estate investing and have recently purchased my second property, a multi-family home that I'm currently renovating. I'm eager to connect with a real estate investing group to learn more and explore ways I can contribute and add value. Thank!
Post: Where to invest?
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Quote from @Dean Gustafson:
Hi all,
So, I've been investing in real estate for almost 10 years old. In 2 years, I'll have one of my units paid off. My question: should I use those proceeds to invest in the S&P 500 (my current plan), use those proceeds to pay off my other units or just purchase another property?
Post: New Out of State Investor Picking a Market - Columbus, OH or Little Rock, AR
- Realtor
- Columbus, OH
- Posts 952
- Votes 878
Quote from @Melina Robinson:
Quote from @Kerlous Tadres:
Hey @Melina Robinson, both markets have potential, but I’d personally recommend Columbus. I’ve invested in several duplexes here, and neighborhoods like Clintonville and Olde Towne East have strong rent-to-price ratios and solid appreciation potential. Clintonville, in particular, benefits from its proximity to Ohio State, while Olde Towne East is seeing revitalization. Columbus also has major employers like Ohio State and Nationwide, keeping the job market strong and supporting rental demand. While turnover can be a concern, good tenant screening helps. For steady growth and long-term stability, Columbus is a great bet.
Thanks Kerlous! The area really sounds like a great balance between cash flow and appreciation, of course with its own set of risks and watch-outs. What are your thoughts on starting with a duplex or small multifamily as a first time investor vs a SFH? Thanks again!
I would suggest going with a duplex if you get the right deal, because you should always be able to rent one side out and not lose as much money from vacancies.