What's the best way to break into RE development?

[Josh Justiniano]

What's the best way to break into RE development? I'm looking to develop some multifamily properties and hold onto them for the long term. 

What's the best way to get started? 

I've been mailing land in my area consistently, but not getting a lot of traction. It seems people are paying high prices in expectation that soon prices will have appreciated enough to justify construction.

I cannot consider working for a dev firm as I'm already a full time investor and cannot take a bunch of time away from my biz. 

Any other suggestions?