What should my first step be?

[Michael Monroe]

Hello

I just graduated college, and I am beginning the job search. I already know that I do not want the W2 life, and I am truly passionate about real estate investing. I want to start investing ASAP. I plan to use first time home buyer money in March to get myself into a house hack. 

Personally, I am looking for a W2, because I do understood having that will help me when it comes to obtaining loans. However, I live with my cousin and we took the house over after a family member passed a couple years ago. He is not big on investing but he would definitely be interested in taking a HELOC if I found the right deal. I am also fortunate enough to have a family member who is well off that is very supportive of me investing, so if I find the right deal he most likely would be very interested in helping me.

So what should I be focusing on? I know forsure that the W2 job will not allow me to save at the rate I need to get to financial freedom in the timeline I want. Should I be focusing on finding a great deal then bringing it to my relative? Talk to my cousin about the HELOC? Personally, I would like to find a flip or even a great BRRRR so that I can grow my capital.