What it takes

[Mark Zaboynik]

I am just starting to learn the ins and outs of investing in properties.
I have work in or around the real estate business for years now.
I do own one home with a mortgage on it, I have some cash saved. I have read about 7 books on investing in real estate and read a large amount of websites. I also stop bye a few investment clubs.
I am looking for a 6 flat or bigger. My time frame is to find and make a purchase my the end of the 1st half of 2013. I am thinking of pull out some or all my equity and add cash to the deal to make sure I get a positive cash flow from it, while maintaining as much of my cash as possiable. I have conducted market area analysis and I think I found a couple of locations that I have now started looking for properties in.
I would like advise on what its going to take, the truth? I know there will be hard times and a learing curve. But what advise can you give me? Once you closes on a property you now have a major commitment for years to come even if you decide to sell it 6 months from the purchase date. My goals is added income and retirerment. Once you do your due diligence do you just jump in and hope for the best?

Thanks