General questions about starting

[Caleb Brown]

Hello everyone! This is only my second post! I love to read as many posts I can, but never get the chance to post myself. But, here I am. I would just like to know what are the MOST important things to get in place before starting real estate, and how? I will be in college in Pensacola, Florida in about two months, with plans on getting involved in REIA's, getting to know people, etc. I know that is one big thing is getting my name out there, talking to people, etc. But other then things like REIA's, im not exactly sure what to do, or how to do it. Im not the type to just "wing it" and buy a place and figure it out as I go. So I just would like to know what exactly I need to get in place before I buy. Certain types of contacts, tools, time frame planning? Any ideas from experience: new or old, would be absolutely great! With no prior experience in real estate, and nobody close to take me under their wing, I have turned to the forums to get involved! Thanks everyone!