New to BP and real estate investing

[Christopher Zmolik]

I'm so thankful to be here learning from this platform.  I grew up framing/building houses with my dad and family, so I have much experience in that area.  I now want to get into real estate investing.  I have a good W2 (fireman/paramedic) and am looking to build wealth so I can retire earlier.  I have money I'm ready to invest with.  My question is, what is a smart way to use this money?  Like I said, I'm new to this and just looking for advice on direction.