Trying to do this right, but it is very hard

[Antonia Willis]

There are so many different ways to attack REI and it becomes very discouraging. This site helps so much, but it can even be overwhelming for a newbie like myself to even know where to start. I don't really have anyone to guide me in this process so I am extremely nervous. REI is expensive and I don't know where or how to start the process to put myself in the position to get a property. I am in the Norfolk/VA BEACH area and I really want to get started in this REI process, but I am so lost. There are so many questions I have like how do I know its a good deal, what should I be asking the seller/agent, if its a short sale is that more difficult than just regular buying and fixing up? There is a property here in the Norfolk area that my agent told me was a steal. Its a triplex and already has tenants who don't want to leave. It is a short sale, and the seller is asking 118K, but even if I say 90k I still think that's high for my first property and how in the world do I even acquire this property or know what in the world I'm talking about or listening for? Any and all help is sooooo appreciated!

-Lost Navy Girl Antonia