All Forum Posts by: Arman Ahmed

@Richie Martin

Richie, you can absolutely make offers without your own agent, but keep in mind the listing agent represents the seller. You’d either submit directly through that listing agent (who then works both sides) or work with a transaction coordinator/title company to get paperwork handled. Just know the agent’s loyalty is to the seller, so they’re not negotiating with your best interest in mind. That’s why many investors still use an investor-friendly agent — not just to write the offer, but to run comps, spot red flags, and structure terms that actually protect you.

@Brandon Lee

Brandon, I usually let the numbers and the market tell me which way to go. If I can force enough equity with rehab and walk away with a strong cash-on-cash return quickly, I lean flip. But if the property cashflows well after financing and fits into a neighborhood with long-term growth potential, I'll hold. One quick rule of thumb I use: if I can get at least 20%+ ROI on a flip versus stable 8–10% cash-on-cash on a hold, I'll flip. If cashflow is strong and I'd regret selling in 5 years, I hold.

@Vinson Lee

Vinson, $200k on a Bay Area rehab can get out of hand quick, and at $3,300 rent the cashflow isn’t that strong after expenses — you’re really just banking on appreciation. If you don’t want to sink time and stress into a major remodel, selling as-is and redeploying that equity into a Midwest market where $200k buys you 2–3 solid rentals with stronger cashflow might give you better long-term stability.

@Jordan Frisco

Jordan, I hear you — a lot of investors feel that way, especially with so much data being available online now. The reality is, for investors, an agent isn't about Zillow or MLS access anymore — it's about the extra layer. Things like knowing which pockets of Cleveland are shifting from D to C grade, having a Rolodex of vetted contractors/property managers, being able to source off-market deals or pocket listings, and negotiating with investor math in mind (cashflow, ARV, exit strategy) rather than just "comps." For retail buyers/sellers, agents might just be transaction managers, but for investors, the right agent can act more like a local partner. That's where the value either shows up — or doesn't.

@Matt Settle

Matt, totally get where you’re coming from—getting started can feel overwhelming, especially with a family depending on you. The good news is yes, it can be done starting from very little, but the key is to focus on strategies that require less upfront capital, like house-hacking, creative financing, or partnering with others who have capital but not time. Education is important, but pairing it with action (networking with local investors, analyzing deals daily, and talking to lenders) will build your confidence. Many of us in the Midwest market started small and scaled step by step—what makes the Midwest attractive is the lower price points, steady rental demand, and cash flow potential, which make it easier for new investors to get traction without overextending.

@Nancy Eyzaguirre

Yes, I actively invest in Columbus along with other Ohio markets. It definitely moves quickly, but that’s also what makes it strong—good deals don’t sit long. The key is having the right systems and local connections in place so you can move fast when something fits your numbers.

@Robin A Jackson

Robin, thanks for sharing such a detailed breakdown—this is super helpful for others too. Honestly, both approaches you outlined can work, but the biggest thing I'd weigh is your risk tolerance with a new baby and limited reserves. Sometimes the "singles and doubles" approach—less leverage, steady cash flow, and breathing room—beats swinging for the fences when life already has a lot on your plate. That said, the ADU conversion does give you a path to stronger long-term numbers, as long as you're comfortable with the added stress in the short term. I invest in the Midwest where deals often cash flow better without needing heavy lifts, but in higher-priced markets like Portland, your strategy of adding units is often the way to make numbers work.

@Adam Macias

I am interested. Can you please tell me more about it? 

@Christopher Schulte

Congrats on taking the leap into STR investing, Christopher! Denver and Colorado Springs both have strong demand, but also keep an eye on regulations since they can change quickly in mountain and vacation markets. A couple of things that help first-time STR buyers: really dig into seasonality when running your numbers (winter vs summer demand), budget extra for furnishing/marketing since guest experience drives reviews, and line up reliable cleaners/maintenance early—it can make or break your operations. I personally invest in the Midwest, but many of the same fundamentals apply: know your tenant/guest demand, stress test your numbers, and build a local team you trust.

@Daniel Zarate

Daniel, sounds like you've already laid some great groundwork with your VA loan and savings. A lot of new investors run into the "what's the best first move?" question. One approach is to keep your VA loan property as a strong foundation and then use your available cash to pick up a second property that cash flows—this way you're building your portfolio rather than tying more money into one place. I invest in the Midwest where properties are often under $150k and cash flow stronger, so sometimes diversification outside your local market can help speed things up. Have you thought about whether you want to stay local to Reno or branch out to other markets?