Starting out and feeling frozen

[Ronnie Galindo]

Good morning BP,

I have been lurking around the forums and BP for quite some time. I decided to pull the plug and become a Pro member because I am tired of no action in REI. I have listened to 80% of the podcasts, read Brandon's book on investing with little to no money down. I am also halfway done with David's book on long distance investing. I have reached out (through BP) and found a great team (it seems) in Columbus, OH and Houston, TX however I have been hit with the truth. It seems I don't have the capital to invest.

Now I know some of you are like "C'mon, there is always a way" and those are the people I am looking for advice from! I know there are ways to start investing but I don't know how, where, when?! I have around $10k in reserves but that is my whole liquid funds. My brother has some money (around $30k) but isn't looking to be a lender (he wants to make money too, and quick). I live in Napa, CA where the market is too steep for me plus the thought of investing in CA makes me nervous because of how tenant friendly they are here. 

I know there are options. My wife and I make good money so I could knuckle down and pull a David Greene and work my day job (Deputy Sheriff), pick up overtime, and just be frugal and save for the next 6 months to get to around $20-30k then start investing. Or.... Anyone have any opinions or advice for this newbie?

Thank you!  

-Ronnie