Hi, We have been considering using Codebox type lockboxes for self showings but have been concerned about prospective tenants or vendors not putting the keys back in the lockbox.

@Matt Meyer - If I understand you correctly, a prospective tenant will need to submit an application, have their credit pulled and provide proof of income - before they can even tour the property to learn if it really even works for their needs?

I'm seeing opportunities in Colombia, Perú, Argentina, Panamá, and México.But, unless you're located IN one of these countries, it's probably not the place to learn real estate investing.That said, you should know that the amount of capital you have has ZERO bearing on whether you can get started in real estate.If you know how to property recognize and analyze a deal and you are able to get prospective sellers to tell you their problems, you're well on your way to becoming an investor.However, you could have a million dollars in your pocket, but if you can't recognize nor analyze a deal and can't talk to sellers, you're no investor.

Regarding likelihood of success- sure, the prospect of failure is real.

As of today, May 19, 2024, he is advertising a single family house for sale in Rosedale (Queens), NY for $250k, while stating that it will be a short sale once a prospective buyer makes and offer that's accepted by the seller after providing proof of funds. 

As for the Northwest suburbs, I’m a big fan of areas like Palatine, Schaumburg, & Mount Prospect.

Maybe that's the prospective buyer.. $250-300k is a healthy 1031X that could go a long way - especially if the sellers are willing to carry! 

I would like some tips on what I can work on now(Im in college and this is kind of prospective), what I should not do when just starting out and just some beginner advice.

You don't think prospective tenants won't be put off by this?

The only way to see what the market will bear is to put the property on the market to rent and see the prospective tenant reactions.