New to real estate investing!

[Steven Holmes]

I have been reading many articles and many forums and trying to educate myself on investing before I get myself financially tied in.  I absolutely love doing my own research and understanding every aspect possible in order to prepare myself.

I have done the majority of my research on purchasing a multi family home as a starter.  The reason is probably clear, but I would like to invest in a duplex, rent out one of the units and live in the other.  My hopes are to establish the rental to the point of essentially living there with the tenant paying the mortgage at least.  I am just inquiring for any helpful tips, hints, and knowledge to get started.  I would also like to gather knowledge of beginner mistakes that I should avoid and just expand my knowledge of real estate investing as much as I can and help establish myself and become comfortable and confident in my investments.  Thank you for your time!