Starting with blemished credit

[Cruz Rodriguez]

Hello BigPocketeers!

I’m located in Fort Worth, Texas and I have been interested in investing into real estate for years now. Specifically small multi-family rentals.

I'm 27 years old and like many people in their 20s I have some credit issues, it's nothing too severe but something that will definitely affect my chances of a lender giving me a loan. I am a veteran with eligibility for VA benefits so I do have that in my favor, but my question to the forum is, "where should I start?". Obviously rehabbing my credit is a good place but while I do that I want to learn as much of the market and business as possible. Would it benefit to obtain a real estate license? Are there any meet ups in the local DFW area where I can start networking with investors, contractors, lenders etc.?

Any advice and guidance is greatly appreciated and I look forward to networking with everyone!