Advice on strategy

[Joel Reynolds]

I recently retired from my occupation due to health issues and would like to get started in real estate investing.  
I am looking to use the funds from my company buyout to get started, 300-400k.

 I have been reading and trying to educate myself regarding real estate and also meeting with other real estate investors to pick their brains.  I am working as a consultant part-time so I have the ability to set aside time each day for research, meetings, etc.

I don't necessarily need a lot of cash flow on the front end but would like to "get the ball rolling" to start building equity.

Any advice on how to get started is greatly appreciated, thanks!