New to REI ... questions for those willing to share

[Jason Sterling]

Good morning,

I have long been interested in investing within real estate in any capacity.  After working full time for 10 years (32 years old), I have created enough liquidity that I feel comfortable starting, but not sure where or how.  I discovered this site recently and it has been a great opportunity for information discovery and education, and for that I thank all of you.

Living in NJ, I am not sure how to find good deals (looking to start as a buy, rent and hold with reasonable cash flow).  This area seems expensive and over saturated with investors, but I could be wrong.  I would love insight from anyone with experience investing in this area, and also any insights on how to get started if you were in my shoes? I apologize in advance for the ambiguity, but alas, you don't know, what you don't know, until you know it. 

My goal in REI is like many im sure, to create financial independence.

Thank you for your help.