$500,000 in cash. What to do.

[Mark H.]

I have yet to purchase any rental property. I have made my money overseas from savings. I do like owning some stocks, but I now want to diversify into real estate. I have $500,000 in cash. I do not want to rush in to getting any properties before I understand alot more than I currently do. With that being said, if you had $500,000 in cash, would you buy properties in cash, or finance? I am mainly looking for income. I am currently in the DFW area, but wouldnt mind looking in other areas for rentals. Thanks in advance for any responses.