How do I take advantage of a real estate deal when just starting?

[David F Anderson]

Just getting my feet wet on real estate investing (reading "How to invest in real estate, the ultimate beginners guide").  I am retired with good credit, 401k investments, and savings.  I do not own my house, but rent.  My landlord just informed me he will be selling the house once the lease is up (in about a year).  I want to take advantage of trying to purchase, along with his other property, but am too "early" in the real estate game to know that much about it.  Can I get insight on what I need to do to get started In the right direction?