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Money panel

Paul Barrera,  49, Post office window clerk, St. Petersburg

By FRED W. WRIGHT JR.
Published October 29, 2006

How did you get started in investing?

I bought my first house about 18 years ago. I'm also a little bit in the stock market, but that's a whole other ball game.

What is your best investment?

About 10 years ago, a multifamily home, as far as having extra income monthly.

What is your worst investment?

The stock market was the worst. I got into the tech stocks in 2000 when everything started going down.

What have you learned about investing that you think all investors should know?

Nothing is quick and easy. It takes deliberate thought and education. I've taken a lot of classes and courses over the years. The more you know about what you're investing in, the more information you have, the more tools you acquire.

How would you describe your approach to investing?

Very conservative. I don't want to get caught in another (real estate) bubble.

What do you find the most difficult about investing?

Determining which way the (real estate) market is going to go.

How are you invested?

About 80 percent in real estate; the rest is in a 401(k) at work.

What changes have you made in your investments in the past year?

I've refinanced the properties - got ARMs whenever I could. I don't think interest rates will keep going up, especially in Florida.

Do you think now is a good time to invest?

I think there are opportunities out there.

What is your goal for investing?

I have another nine years with the post office - to be debt free and to keep my education level going and be more aware of markets and trends.

What is your biggest money concern?

Insurance and taxes. Insurance rates are really hitting hard. My rates have quadrupled.

Where do you get your investment tips?

I subscribe to the Real Estate Investors Publication, a magazine out of Miami.

[Last modified October 28, 2006, 20:31:38]