Stepping back from the excitement

[Alex Martens]

Hey BP community,

I figured I'd share my thoughts with you all tonight because that's what the site is for! So it has been about a month since I have decided real estate investing is a career path a want to take (along with a small woodworking business on the side), and I could not be more excited. The minute I realized I wanted to do this, I started scanning Zillow for properties that I could potentially buy up and started looking at my savings and other investments real close...And then I realized "Wait a minute, I have no idea what I'm doing!" So as much as I want to dive head first into the real estate world, it is probably in my best interest to slow down and take a step back.

Just about a year ago, I purchased my first home, knowing that I would be moving for work again in a couple years. The intent with this home was, and still is, to rent it out. So I certainly consider this my first rental property even though I am not receiving any cash flow yet....but it's at least a property to keep me motivated.  

So my plan for about the next year is to strictly educate myself by reading to books, listening to podcasts, utilizing BP, etc. Quite frankly, the more knowledge I have about the real estate investing world, the easier it will be to finally get my wife on board! But really, It would be insane to jump into something like this blind.

I also plan on trying to network and make connections with as many people as I can...anyone from like-minded investors, to contractors , managers, etc. Luckily, I already have a fantastic real estate agent who just has a plethora of knowledge. I really believe BP is a great vehicle to start building this knowledge and relationships...which is why I also think it is so imperative to get on here and write something! What do you guys think?

I know I'll never know it all, so I do not want to wait forever to invest...Because sometimes I feel the best way to learn is to just do it. Right? But I want to find that balance between being underprepared and trying to be so prepared that I'll never make a move. 

Regards,

Alex