Seeking knowledge from experienced, wise individuals

[Israel Gabriel Martinez]

I am 18 and ready to learn as much as possible. I am looking for suggestions from more experienced businessmen, real estate investors. What are some key skills and tips you suggest I can learn now since I am young that will benefit me for the rest of my days. Skills that you found game changing in your life. It can be anything, I am open minded to learn a little about a lot right now since I got the time. Also, some key tips or routines that you found beneficial to your life. Like I said, it can be anything. I want to be successful.

[Eric Shadowens]

Hello Israel,

Congrats on your eagerness to learn.  I work in the tax world and am currently working on gaining more knowledge in the real estate world.  A few items you may consider as you're researching:

*Look around you at school.  You'd be amazed as you grow older how many times your path will cross with those surrounding you today.  So much so that it is worth your time to establish relationships with everyone possible.  You'll never know which one of those folks will become the next lender, CPA, attorney, contractor, real estate agent, etc.  You begin to build your network today and it will reward you many times over when you finally begin your professional career.

*Networking - begin researching business associations in your area that you'd be interested in joining.  Most cities have a version of a young professional group that you can tap into and begin to get an understanding of how building business relationships will create referrals for you in the future.  

*Develop business social media accounts and be active on Twitter, LinkedIn, BiggerPockets, etc.  You can connect with folks as well as follow businesses that peak your interest.  The more articles you read from following these businesses the quicker you pickup on the terminology.  

*If you have downtime consider walking/riding through your neighborhood and get familiar with the type of homes there.  Consider the condition they are in and how you might change them to be more appealing if any are in bad shape.  You could also pick out other areas in your town to frequent and follow the same scenario of looking just to get an idea of how different parts of your town are built.  

*Volunteer.  You can volunteer at a local cafeteria helping out the less fortunate or any other method.  It will help you appreciate what you have and remind you there are always folks who need assistance. 

Good luck in getting our professional career off and running.