Early steps to take before investing?

[Joseph Beazley]

I am 24 years old and my number one priority right now is working as much as possible to have a down payment for my first real estate purchase. I am very new to all of this but very eager. I know real estate is a great way to become successful. Some questions I have: Besides getting the money saved first, what are some of the things I can be doing in the mean time to help myself later on? I live in Ventura County California. Anyone have any tips on starting small in California? As you all know housing isn't very cheap here. Any information is greatly appreciated! Thank you.