HOW TO GET STARTED INVESTING: A QUICK GUIDE (New Orleans, 2025)

1. Know What Kind of Investor You Want to Be

Start by figuring out your investing goals. Ask yourself:

Do you want to build wealth over time or earn passive income?
Are you more interested in real estate, the stock market, or local business ventures?
How much risk are you willing to take?

2. Set a Budget

Only invest what you can afford to lose. Seriously. Start small:

Emergency fund ✅
Debt managed ✅
Extra cash? Now you’re ready.

3. Explore Investment Options in New Orleans

Here are some strong opportunities specific to NOLA:

🏘️ Real Estate

Shotgun homes & multifamily properties in up-and-coming neighborhoods (like New Orleans East, Gentilly, or parts of Algiers).
Short-term rentals (Airbnb/VRBO) — but check local regulations first.
Historic property tax credits for renovating older buildings.

📈 Stock Market

Use apps like Robinhood, Fidelity, or Charles Schwab.
Focus on ETFs and index funds if you’re just starting.
Automate weekly or monthly investments.

🏪 Small Business / Local Startups

Platforms like Mainvest or Wefunder sometimes feature New Orleans-based businesses.
Invest in local businesses you know and trust.

4. Take Advantage of Local Resources

Propeller, Idea Village, and Good Work Network all support local entrepreneurs and investors.
NOLA-specific real estate investor meetups and workshops are great networking spots.

5. Learn the Basics (and Keep Learning)

Read: The Simple Path to Wealth by JL Collins.
Podcasts: BiggerPockets, Money Guy Show.
Follow local financial coaches or real estate investors on social media.

6. Start Small & Be Consistent

Even $25/month into an index fund adds up over time. Consistency > big moves.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or legal advice. Investing involves risk, and past performance does not guarantee future results. Always do your research and consult with a licensed financial advisor or investment professional before making any investment decisions. Local laws, ordinances, and regulations—especially regarding real estate and short-term rentals in New Orleans—are subject to change and should be verified through official city or state sources.