Any advice for a newbie with high debt-to-income ratio?

[Robert Lum]

Hello everyone,

I have just begun to learn a lot of real estate investing. I have been acquiring as much knowledge as possible about the brrr method and interested in pursuing that. But considering that I am in one of the most expensive markets on the planet - NYC, it is possible but extremely difficult. Hence, I plan to seek opportunities in neighboring States or nearby cities/towns.

My prior concern, as with a lot of people, is my high debt-to-income ratio. My student loans from undergrad and law school amount to somewhere in the $130k range. Thus, I figured it would be nearly impossible for me to obtain any sort of loan (unless I am mistaken?). My current employment salary as an attorney is $65,000.00 without 401k; however, I do get a decent bonus for bringing in clients (a percentage of whatever the firm ultimately bills the  client).

So here is my question to you folks who are/were similarly situated like me - what are some of the best options for me to get into real estate investing in light of my current financial situation?

I appreciate any advice you may have.