All Forum Posts by: Walter W.

Welcome to BP. 

Won,

I am by no means an expert but am happy to provide some thoughts. Every market is unique and I can’t say if commercial real estate or apartments is a better investment in your area. I would suggest that you look at a lot of properties and learn the numbers behind real estate (read this book: http://www.amazon.com/Every-Estate-Investor-Financial-Measures-ebook/dp/B004BKIEUS).

Also, determine your financial objectives. Are you investing for cash flow, appreciation, or a combination of the two? Are you interested in Class A, B or C? Do you want to have a property manager or self-manage?

I would highly suggest that you talk to the managing partner at the CRE Company. Just be respectful and listen. That meeting certainly can't hurt.

Good luck!

Walter

Welcome to BP, Darren.  I work in Bellevue, so let me know if you are in town. I will buy you coffee. 

Welcome to BP.  I am based in Seattle and happy to recommend some real estate agents who have been very helpful.  Shoot me a note if that would be helpful.

Fantastic interview! Well done, Josh and Brandon. Now I have to read Grant's books!

Lauren,

You might consider taking out a HELOC to pull out equity. I did this on a rental I own on Vashon and could go up to 70% total LTV. Well done buying in 2010. I'll bet you've built up equity.

Also, the pink paint fits right in at West Seattle :-).

I am a commercial lender and we ask for personal guarantees all the time. I have worked for a national bank and now work for a regional bank.

How many banks have you spoken with?  It might be worth getting a second opinion. 

Logan, 

Two years ago, I was in a nearly identical situation. I bought a SFH in the Seattle area (VERY low cash flow-maybe similar to San Diego?) and a few turnkey properties across the country (Jacksonville, Indianapolis, and Kansas City). I am happy to share my experiences if you would like. Send me a message and we can chat.

Short story-both strategies have worked for me.  Just make sure you buy at the right price.

Walter

Welcome to BP!