How do I get the ball rolling here?!?!

[Collin Vosburgh]

So I'm new to real estate and now that I'm making some decent money I would really like to start investing. BUT I have no idea how to get started! I can read all I want (and I've read a lot and listened to a lot of lectures) but when it comes down to it, when it comes to finding a deal and getting the ball rolling I have no idea! How do I get deals? What paper work do I need? How much money do I need? How do I know where to buy?! Is Illinois a good place to buy? I live in the northern part right by Six Flags. I definitely need help. How do I find someone who wants to help and do deals with me? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!