New Member from Los Angeles area

[Erik Engle]

Hi all!

I got linked to this site a few days ago and have been impressed with the wealth of information about real estate investing and the surprisingly proactive online community. I am 25 years old and currently work in PR/Marketing in Century City. 

Real estate has been a topic of discussion in my family for awhile. My Mom had several properties that she eventually sold off in San Francisco and Walnut Creek. The real reason I've been thinking of real estate investing seriously is I am coming into an inheritance at the end of year. My father passed away this February suddenly. He co-owned a house in Daily City (near San Fran) that went to me, and it sold this summer. Dealing with the sense of guilt that this is his money (as he needed it badly before he passed), I have thought long and hard about making sure I use it in a way that he'd want me to (he was a huge proponent of traveling and seeing the world), and furthermore, weigh my options in regards to investing. I think it makes sense to mention that I wouldn't be considering real estate investing without this inheritance. I have a pretty tight budget.

I am newbie when it comes to this subject but I have been researching and also downloaded several books that I think will help (Rich Dad Poor Dad, 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, E-Myth Revisited, among others). If anyone has any other recommendations I'm all ears.

Thanks all for your time, I'm enthusiastic about this new find and hope to gain some more insight on the world of real estate investing!

~Erik