All Forum Posts by: Kerlous Tadres

Starting with the podcast is a smart move since it lays the foundation for strategy and mindset. From there, I’d recommend running the numbers on house-hack-friendly properties in your market while also connecting with investor-friendly lenders to understand your financing options. At the same time, start building relationships with local agents and property managers who work with investors, as they’ll give you the on-the-ground perspective you can’t get online. 

Welcome to the journey, Isidro! In markets like Cleveland, the key is knowing your neighborhood grade and tenant base first, then running the numbers conservatively with realistic rent and rehab estimates. For financing, many investors use a DSCR loan or a local portfolio lender that offers purchase + rehab options, especially if you're planning to BRRRR. I'd recommend building relationships with local property managers and agents who know investor neighborhoods, since that "on-the-ground" knowledge is what makes or breaks a long-term rental deal.

Quote from @Lilly Schlosser:

Hi everyone!

I’m excited to join the BiggerPockets community! I’m currently a student and entrepreneur-in-training, focused on learning the skills I’ll need to build a life of financial freedom. Right now I’m growing my investment portfolio and preparing to launch service-based businesses (like cleaning and moving) as a stepping stone into real estate.

My long-term vision is to scale into rental properties and eventually farmland, creating multiple streams of cashflow and a lasting legacy. I joined BiggerPockets to learn from people who are already walking this path, and to connect with others who are building systems and thinking long-term.

For someone newer to investing, do you think it’s better to start small with something like a single-family rental, or save up and wait until I can jump into multi-family? I’d love to hear how you approached your very first deal.

Hey Lilly, 
I think experience is extremely valuable, and you'll benefit more by starting to buy more deals earlier than saving up more. Building your team and doing a first deal is super valuable!

Quote from @Joseph Bondarenko:

I am an engineer that would like to add investment properties into my portfolio. I realized that my only income stream is my W2, so I want to add some real estate to it. I am a beginner, I tend to spend too much time thinking and analyzing before taking action. I am here to learn at BiggerPockets, but need to challenge myself to take more risks and start investing. 

Hey Joseph, welcome to BP! I was a W2 employee for a while. I would recommend looking into either investing in real estate or maybe starting to sell real estate on the side as a side hustle

Quote from @Vincent DeLucia:

Hi BP family,

Wondering what some your thoughts are on properties older than 100 years? I am looking at a few opportunities in the Midwest and the numbers seems to work, my biggest concern is some of them were built in the early 1900s. I have done most of my investing down in south FL, so I am used to looking at properties closer to 50-60 years or younger. 

Any feedback, advice, or thoughts would be appreciated. 

Hey Vincent,
That's a great question! I truly believe that if you get a solid inspector to check out the place and look at the foundation and other key parts of the property, you should be in good shape. I have a couple of properties that were built in 1900, and they're doing fine. It's all about how they were maintained and how you'll maintain them when you own them.

I’m leaning toward a balanced play right now. I still want solid cash flow, but I’m not chasing the highest cap rates if it means buying in a market with no long-term upside. Lately, I’ve been focusing on small multifamily deals in Midwest cities like Columbus and Dayton, where you can still find value-add opportunities. I’d recommend looking for properties that need light renovations, enough to force appreciation and bump rents.

If you’re sitting on the sidelines, I’d say stay active in deal analysis and networking. Rates will eventually shift, and the best deals usually come when most people are waiting. Buy for cash flow that works today, but in markets with steady population and job growth, so you’re set up for long-term equity too.

Hey @Vanessa Marchand, I’d recommend aiming closer to a $25–30k net on a $325k flip, but if you’re in it for experience, a $15–20k profit can work. Just be extra careful with your rehab budget, holding costs, and comps so the spread doesn’t disappear. Keep the scope tight and plan for a few surprises.

Hey @Brice Peterson, I'd recommend starting with an FHA or low-down duplex/4-plex house hack, live in one unit, rehab, and rent the rest. Build credibility by networking with investors and showing detailed deal analyses, even before you buy.

Hey @Andrew Guzman, I’ve seen HELOCs work well for live-in flips, just treat it like an investment loan. Make sure the after-repair value easily covers purchase, rehab, and carrying costs, and leave room if rates rise or the project runs long. If the numbers still cash-flow on paper, it’s a smart way to keep moving without a big down payment.

Hey @Lindsay Bach, set up a trusted cleaner or handyman as your on-call contact and give them smart-lock access. Use a Wi-Fi lock, entry camera, and noise monitor so you can handle issues remotely. Add a co-host on Airbnb to cover guest messages while you’re away.