Looking to take the plunge into real estate investing!

[Scott Carrico]

Hi everybody,

I've been on Biggerpockets for a couple of years now, but this is my first time posting anything.  I've been through many of the resources this website has to offer including books in the bookstore.  I particularly enjoyed Set for Life by Scott Trench.  Now that I've been able to save up some money , I'm getting a little stuck on just diving into the investment process and was hoping to get a little advice or a kick in the rear to get going.

I don't have a lot of personal contacts in real estate.  I am most interested in a house hack as a first investment property.  However, I've got a couple hangups to deal with first.

I'm still receiving income from a previous job from a severance package however I am currently not employed.  I'd imagine it would make most sense to lock up a new job before looking into a mortgage.  I have been searching but things are moving slower than expected.  I'd also like to know where the position will be so I can keep any commute time limited, if possible.  Do you think it would make sense to also look at jobs in real estate to get some experience first?  I'm in a flexible position at the moment which really opens up opportunity and I want to make this moment count.

Any advice is greatly appreciated!