All Forum Posts by: Morgan Tondre

Yes, I have contacted a few lenders to find the best terms/rates. In terms of structuring the loan - I am in the Houston market looking for a deal that will cash flow. For most of the numbers I am running for an SFH 230 - 300K (with less than 20 percent down), I would have to be super aggressive with negotiating with the current interest rates. I am thinking since this is my first deal, I will be living in the home to find something that will potentially cash flow 2-3%, then refi in 12 - 18 months to get 5 - 7% cash flow. As a beginner, I just want to know if this is a good strategy.

Your plan is too basic right now, but it's a start. You are kind of throwing darts and hoping something lands from far away. As others have said, Houston is a better option over Cincinnati just because you have relatives there, but Houston is huge. It's better to have boots on the ground who can go with an agent and to inspections than trying to do it all virtually with people you don't know.

Hey @Andrew Tran

Welcome! Check out Space City REI. It's a local meet up that takes place on the third Wednesday of the month. They just had a meeting this evening that was great.

Hello everyone, first and foremost I want to express my gratitude for this wonderful forum. I am not a local and I am interested in purchasing my first property. I am seeking advice on the most ideal location in terms of ease of renting, a strong rental market, and potential future appreciation in value over the next 5-10 years. Factors to consider include population characteristics, economics, climate, and overall stability. I am not interested in a volatile market.

I am currently considering the following locations:

1. 1. Leander, TX - I am looking at areas near the metro station and the new development "northline" due to job growth in the Austin metro area, influx of large companies, and decent schools, population increase 10% annual since 2020. How will the northline project impact property prices? Is the Metro commonly used for commuting to workplaces in Austin, despite the approximately 1-hour commute time?
2. 2. Manvel, TX - a small suburb south of Houston with an average population growth of 15% since 2020, good proximity to the center of Houston, I am looking at houses near the upcoming developments near the intersection of 288 and 58 north to the HEB.
3. 3. Cypress, TX - a suburb west of Houston with strong proximity to the city and good schools.
4. 4. Katy, TX - a suburb west of Houston with close proximity to the city and good schools, as recommended in this forum.
5. 5.Montgomery County, PA - I am interested in this location due to its strong economy, high-income professionals, excellent schools with an average rating of >7, and good proximity to downtown Philly.

public data shows low crime rate in any of those areas, is that accurate? is there a drug problem in any of those areas ? or specifically places to avoid when looking at those areas ?

I am seeking honest opinions from those familiar with these areas. What should I consider when looking at a new single family or other house? Does the construction material (frame, vinyl siding, etc.) matter? I am looking for peace and tranquility in terms of property management.