Another newbie looking for advice

[S T]

Hi! I am interesting in learning more about the real estate investment potentials and looking for some dirction on how/what to research.

A little about myself. I am 31 married with a kid. Wife and I have worked hard this past year to eliminate our debt (except house) so we have approx $800-1000 month we are looking to invest. I have always known real estate investments to be a good thing. I live in Collin County (Texas) which is touted as one of the fastest growing counties in the country. In my town there is new home construction going everywhere! There is land everywhere so supply is keeping up with the demand. I don't know if that helps me or hurts me..but that is the environment.

I am looking to create some additional monthly income to be able to keep the wife at home with the kid(s) and eventually maybe me too. I am not afraid of hard work, and am a research hound!

Can some one point me in the direction of some good books or sources to learn the business. I just found this forum and plan on reading as much as I can, as with other sites I find. Unfortunately working for a realtor/interning is not an option. I plan on looking at some real estate investment clubs in the area, and possible taking a class at the community college about real estate investing. I also have a good friend that own 3 rentals and another that owns 2, and I think they'd be more than happy to share what (possibly limited) info they know. Any other suggestions are welcome.