Your Real Estate Investing Roadmap
Chattanooga · Cleveland · North Georgia
A property is an opportunity to investigate, not a promise of a return. Start with your goals, look closely at the numbers, and build a plan for the work ahead.
Nine steps. A more informed approach.
Tap or click any card for practical questions and next steps.
1Define Your GoalsStrategy, time & ownership styleExplore this step
Clarify what you want a property to do: provide rental income, support a renovation and resale, or fit another long-term plan. Discuss your time, experience, preferred involvement, and tolerance for uncertainty.
2Plan Financing & ReservesPurchase funds, carrying costs & surprisesExplore this step
Ask your lender about financing for your intended property type and use. Map out acquisition costs, any planned work, holding expenses, and funds available for unexpected repairs or vacancies.
3Compare Properties & LocationsCondition, demand & practical fitExplore this step
Compare properties using your intended use, access, physical condition, competing inventory, and independently researched rental or resale demand. Check the exact property rather than assuming nearby properties have identical rules or potential.
4Evaluate the NumbersIncome, expenses & assumptionsExplore this step
For a rental, separate advertised rent from supported market evidence and actual lease records. Itemize taxes, insurance, maintenance, management, owner-paid utilities, vacancy, association charges, replacement reserves, and financing. For a resale plan, include acquisition, renovation, holding, and selling costs.
5Estimate the WorkScope, quotes & renovation risksExplore this step
Develop a written scope of work and obtain qualified contractor input where needed. Investigate major systems, permits, access, scheduling, and which improvements are necessary for your intended use.
6Build Your OfferPrice, protections & timingExplore this step
Compare the opportunity with your goals and evidence, then discuss price, financing terms, inspection provisions, and other contract conditions. Understand your obligations and deadlines before signing.
7Complete Due DiligenceInspections, records & permitted usesExplore this step
Coordinate inspections and specialist evaluations as appropriate. Review available leases, income and expense records, association documents, title matters, and insurance options. Confirm zoning, rental restrictions, permits, and intended-use requirements with the relevant authorities and professionals.
8Prepare for OwnershipClosing, access & operationsExplore this step
Confirm financing and closing requirements, insurance, agreed property condition, possession, and the transfer of relevant records and access. Plan management, maintenance, utilities, and any tenant-related handoff with appropriate professional guidance.
9Review & AdjustActual results, maintenance & your next decisionExplore this step
After acquisition, compare actual expenses, income, and project progress with your original assumptions. Track maintenance needs and revisit your strategy when circumstances change.
Your Investor Preparation Checklist
Bring your questions. We will use them to shape a focused property search.
Before Your ConsultationA clear starting point for our conversation.View checklist
Your preferred strategy and intended property use
Target areas, timeline, and ownership experience
Financing conversations completed and questions still open
Your available time for renovation or management
Examples of properties you are considering and why
Questions Behind the NumbersCheck the evidence before trusting the projection.View checklist
What supports the income or resale estimate?
Which expenses are missing or based on assumptions?
What happens if repairs cost more or the project takes longer?
How would vacancy or lower income affect the plan?
What funds and professional help would be needed to operate the property?
Property Records to RequestAvailability varies; identify gaps before committing.View checklist
Available leases, rent records, and operating expenses
Repair history, warranties, and major system information
Relevant association documents and restrictions
Available permits, surveys, and inspection reports
Independent confirmation of intended-use requirements
Let's Talk About Your Investment Goals
Jennifer Dixon is a REALTOR® with LPT Realty serving buyers, sellers, and investors in Chattanooga, Cleveland, and North Georgia. She purchased her first property at 21 and brings more than 20 years of hands-on real estate investing experience to conversations about condition, renovation needs, and long-term value.
Whether you are exploring a first investment or evaluating your next acquisition, start with a conversation about your goals and the questions that matter.
Call or text 423-240-3396
jennifer@southeastrealestateinvestors.com
Jennifer Dixon | LPT Realty | TN License 361300 | GA License 414415
This educational roadmap does not guarantee investment results or replace advice from your lender, inspector, contractor, attorney, or tax professional. Verify property-specific information independently. Your signed agreements determine applicable obligations and deadlines.