Hi! Rookie here looking for educational advice

[Monika Ruszaj]

Hi all! First time poster here looking for some advice. I work a Corporate 9-5 (Risk Management and Insurance) and looking to get out of the rat race, and have recently started researching REI. I have started with episode one of the RE Rookie podcast and I am hooked! I have books I have ordered from Amazon as well, and I love that I have have also found this community of like minded individuals. I'd love for my first investment to be a house hack and then eventually a BRRR or a buy and hold, or open to other suggestions!

I want to take the next step and keep educating myself for the next few months before any strategic action is taken. Any advice on next steps?

1.) Are REI meet up groups worth it? Where do I find those? (Chicagoland area)

2.) What do you think about working part time at a Property management company to gain exposure? Or a property manager or co host for air bnbs? I am a great communicator and problem solver by trade, but this may be a different animal!

3.) thoughts on mentors? Any on IG? Worth it to buy one of those courses or do one on one coaching?

Welcome any and all feedback, criticism, anecdotes, bad jokes etc :)

[Nate Meeker]

@Monika Ruszaj welcome to the world of BP and REI! I began back in 2017 to get out of the 9-5 rut as well and it has been the best decision.

1. meetup.com is what I use. 

2. It is up to you if you think it sounds fun. However, most all real estate investors gain exposure by learning and through trial and error. I know it can be daunting, but sometimes the best way to start, is just to start! 

3. Mentorships can be helpful, but I would start by just learning everything I can for free. There is so much information out there...also, maybe start with your local meetups before diving down IG mentors and courses.