If you had to start over....How would you start?

[Ben Keeler]

Hi guys, newbie here. 

I've been listening through the bigger pockets podcast and reading every book I can find on investing/financial wealth building for the better part of a year now and, while there is still a seemingly infinite amount of things to learn, everything I am hearing and reading says just go out and DO IT. Get that first deal under your belt, and thats how you really learn. So, my question to you seasoned, highly successful investors is... If you had to start over, how would you start? 

My 5 year goal is to reach my freedom number through cash flow to then quit my job and dedicate those 40 prime time hours a week to building and scaling a REI business. I am in the greater Washington DC market which means expensive. I have looked into out of state investing (My hometown in SC since I know the area, have contacts on the ground, etc..) But should someone who has never done any deals start out of state? 

I am able to save $2K/month and have been doing so for the past several months. Do I let some time pass and allow that savings account to grow into something more substantial? Or do I get started right away on a less expensive property? 

Ideally I would house hack using an FHA loan but multifamily properties are not common in the area. At least ones that aren't crazy expensive.

How would you finance your first deal? I'm 23 with a fairly good score but essentially no credit history. 

Thanks everyone! I would appreciate any and all advice you could give me!