All Forum Posts by: Kerlous Tadres

Hey Tara, I’d suggest connecting at local meetups or through online real estate forums like BiggerPockets. Having someone you trust can make a big difference in building your portfolio. As for funding, if you don’t want to use your credit or personal money, consider private lenders or hard money loans. You could also explore seller financing or other creative financing options. Paying off the loan with rental income is definitely possible, but make sure the property’s cash flow covers all the costs involved.

I would recommend a long-term rental for more stability and consistent cash flow as a first investment.

Quote from @Christopher Costea:

Hello all! I really appreciate anyone’s help or guidance. Currently live in NY. I think the tristate area is too expensive to invest in general at the moment. I am open to investing out of state although I am a novice with limited exposure in real estate investing. Currently have a mortgage that is quite high without any other debt. My wife also works together we make a decent income. I work in medical field and so does she. We just had our first child, and I would like to diversify our investment portfolio. At moment I spend about 40-50 hours a week towards my job so I don’t know how time I could dedicate to actively investing. I was looking at syndications but I have no idea where to start. In future maybe I will be able to spend more time investing, I am also getting my MBA part time so its not realistic to manage a multi family at this time. 

Given your busy schedule, I’d recommend starting with passive investments like syndications. They’ll allow you to invest in real estate without the time commitment of managing properties yourself. Focus on partnering with experienced syndicators who have a solid track record, especially in markets like Ohio, Texas, or Georgia, where entry costs are lower and cash flow potential is strong. It’s a good way to diversify your portfolio while keeping things manageable for now. As you get more time, you can dive deeper into real estate.

Hey Caryn, I would recommend considering all your options carefully before making a decision. If the market is slow, selling at a lower price might help minimize losses, especially if you're feeling the pressure of carrying costs. If you're open to holding onto the property a bit longer, pivoting to STR or MTR could generate cash flow while waiting for the market to recover. This route also allows you to capitalize on a high-demand rental market if it's in a good location. Another option could be seller financing, which could help you move the property while potentially providing ongoing income.

Hey Keaton, out-of-state investing can be a great way to diversify and find better deals. I would recommend starting by focusing on markets with strong rental demand and job growth. Do your research to understand the local economy and rental rates. It's also crucial to build a reliable team of property managers, contractors, and agents who are experienced in working with out-of-state investors. I’d suggest taking small steps at first, like starting with a single-family rental or a small multi-family property, to get comfortable with the process.

Quote from @Justin Salazar:

My name is Justin, I'm 23 years old. I want to get into real estate investing. Anyone have any tips on where to start to point me in the right direction? 

 I would start with networking with other people in real estate! 

Quote from @Juan Lopez:

Hey BiggerPockets Community,

I'm excited to jump into real estate investing, and as a new investor based in the Bay Area, I'm setting my sights on out-of-state opportunities. My focus is specifically on acquiring Section 8 rental properties, and I'm currently zeroing in on Detroit, Memphis, and Cleveland.

I'm here to soak up as much knowledge as possible. If you have experience in these markets, insights into building a reliable remote team (property managers, agents, contractors), tips for navigating the Section 8 process, or any general advice for successful out-of-state investing, please share!

Thanks in advance for your guidance and support.

Welcome to BP! I have been looking into Cleveland as well—there are still some solid opportunities if you take the time to vet neighborhoods and build the right team. I don’t have direct experience with Section 8 yet, but I’ve heard having a reliable property manager who understands the process is key. Definitely take your time finding boots-on-the-ground people and building your CORE 4 which includes a solid real estate agent, contractor, and property manager.

Quote from @Ravi Iyer:

Hi all....

I am a newbie real estate investor who lives in California and is inheriting rental property in Columbus Ohio. I'd love advice on managing properties (including possible property management companies) and am open to expanding/exchanging/remodeling/etc.  Some of them definitely could use work, but are in good areas IMHO.  I grew up in Columbus so have some knowledge of the area. Feel free to give me recommendations or self-nominate folks I should talk with.

Much appreciated!

Ravi

Hey Ravi, welcome to BP! I have a list of property managers and contractors I can refer you to. It really helps that you're from the area and understand neigborhoods 

Quote from @Melissa Adams:

Hello! My name is Melissa and I reside in Columbus, Ohio. I’m only beginning to delve into real estate investing, and gain knowledge and insight. I was a Real Estate Paralegal for 13 years. I am extremely eager to learn all I can and then put a plan in motion. I hope to connect with like-minded people to help navigate this new endeavor. 

Hey Melissa, welcome to BP! This is a great place to start and I invest here in Columbus. Would be more than happy to sit and have a coffe with you 

Quote from @Ivan Semin:

Starting to analyze zip codes in the DMV, NC, ОН area for long-term buy-and-hold.

Curious what areas people here are currently investing in, especially interested in multi-family. DSCR, BRRRR

Anyone working in Prince George's County, Arlington, or Fairfax? What has your experience been like?

Would appreciate any insights — I'm just getting started and trying to build a solid foundation.

— Ivan

Hey Ivan, I've been digging into similar areas too. In Ohio, I'm seeing some good numbers in parts of Cleveland and Columbus—still decent room for BRRRR if you buy right. PG County has potential but entry prices are definitely higher, and cash flow can be tighter unless you find a deal or add value. Haven't done anything in Arlington or Fairfax yet but curious to hear more from others too. Keep at it, you're on the right track.