Where to start?

[Rajshivraj Sandhu]

Hi everyone,

I hope you're all doing well. I'm a 20-year-old real estate enthusiast from the UK and, along with my brother, we've managed to save up £85k. I am eager to start building a serious real estate portfolio, but I want to approach it with caution and make informed decisions to minimize risks. I would greatly appreciate your advice on a few key aspects:

1. Avoiding Over-Leverage: I've heard that leverage can be a powerful tool for growing a portfolio quickly, but it can also lead to trouble during market downturns. How can I use leverage safely, ensuring it doesn't become a burden in case of a market downturn?
   
2. Protecting Investments in Market Downturns: Real estate is a long-term investment, and market downturns are inevitable. What strategies can I adopt to safeguard my investments during challenging economic times? Should I set aside a portion of net profit to pay down the principal, or is there a better approach that won't hinder portfolio growth?
   
3. Analyzing Market Cycle Shifts: Currently, I rely on the CNN Fear Index for market insights, but I know it may not be the most reliable indicator. What specific things can I look for to better analyze market cycle shifts that might indicate whether the market will go up or down? Whether it's a single key factor or a combination of indicators, I'd love to hear your insights.

I understand that real estate investing requires patience and strategic thinking. I'm willing to take the time to build a solid foundation for a successful portfolio. Any tips, experiences, or resources you can share would be immensely valuable.