How to "Take the next step

[Emosi Time]

I am curious to see if anyone else shares my dilemma. I am in the service, bought my 1st property and fixed it up, currently my primary residence. I want to expand my real estate portfolio, but am too nervous to rack on more payments to my current military salary. I see great deals in my area but I hesitate constantly in fear of putting myself in financial hardship. Has anyone been stuck in a similar situation and took a step to further themselves? Thank you in advance.