Playing to my strengths

[Ryan Burton]

Hi all!

I am new to real estate investing and looking to gain as much knowledge as I can. In addition to listening to the BP podcast and doing a lot of reading, I would like to learn from those who are further along than me.

I know that in order to build solid relationships, I need to show the value that I can bring to the table. After giving this some thought, I know that I can bring value through some of my biggest strengths: accounting and finance knowledge, along with the ability to learn whatever else comes my way. I am the head of the accounting and finance team at my company, and I know what it takes to build an efficient operation from the ground up. I am still learning the financial metrics and accounting principals of real estate, but I have found what I have come across so far to be interesting and easy to pick up.

So that being said, I have a few questions for those willing to give their input:

1. Have you found that having a stronger than average knowledge of real-estate specific accounting/tax is a valuable trait for someone in this industry? And if so, what are some of the best ways to learn that you've come across? Recommendations for books/courses/articles?
2. If you are an experienced investor, how does your accounting get done? It seems that most investors are knowledgeable about financial metrics, but I haven't heard much about the accounting side.

Thanks!