I'm 17 and I'm eager to begin

[Dj Samson]

I'm a 17 year old High School Senior and I live in the suburbs of New York and I'm interested in investing in real estate. I currently have about $6,000 in my savings account and I plan on using these funds to buy my first property.

I've been reading alot of real estate books and although I'm taking in so much info, I still feel a little confused about analyzing profitable deals. I've been told that a good way to get started before I turn 18 next year is by bird dogging. I understand the basic theory of bird dogging but I don't completely understand what type of information I need to supply the investor when passing along a deal. I also am unsure if a home/apartment owner would give me certain information when I'm not actually interested in buying the property.

As far as actually investing, I plan on buying a duplex when I go to college next spring. I'm a little worried that a Banker/Realtor/Lawyer won't take me seriously because of my age, but my parents said they will sign on a loan because I don't have any credit history.

My major goals are to have a stream of income in college and to be financially free when I leave college.

Does anyone have any advice for me? If you recommend any books that could help me get started I would appreciate it.

Thank you for your help.