What should my next step be?

[Gregory Wickham]

Hello all and thanks for taking the time to read my first post!

I'm almost a complete newbie to real estate investing and have run into something of a brick wall. I figure now would be the time to ask for help/strategies as to what my next step should be.

I own to rental properties, both duplexes for a total of 4 units (1 of which I occupy and 3 which have tenants). Through a stroke of strange timing, I got the second property in the same month that I was laid off from my job. I've managed to land some low paying, part time work which covers my minor bills and my mortgages and other business related expenses are being taken care of by my rental income.

My question simply: What steps can I take, given my current situation to grow my business? From what I can gather, the buy-and-hold strategy really takes wing at about 3rd or 4th property.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated and I look forward to hearing from you guys.

Thanks in advance.