Where and how to start investing from overseas?

[Michael Alston]

Hi,

I have a question, I've read the BP Beginner's Guide and feel fairly comfortable with the very basics of real estate investing. My question is, my wife and I are looking to invest within the next year and would like advice on how to start investing. We're overseas (Japan) and will be here for a couple more years and would like for now to be the time to start building a foundation for when we get out of the military in 2017. I read about several niches and aren't sure what is best. Please advise such as investing in notes, buying and holding, etc. We would like to not take out a loan if we don't need to absolutely do so but are willing to. We plan on investing in central California.