Newbie from Gilbert AZ

[Josh Zolin]

Hey everyone, so glad I found this site. My name is Josh. I'm a business owner here in Gilbert, AZ and run a pretty successful service company; sitting at about 12% ROI. Been in business 12 years and we are starting to expand to other states. Although that consumes most of my time, it also acts as the catalyst for my real estate investment companies. I've been interested in real estate for quite a while and started dabbling in 2011. I've read countless books and articles, flipped a few houses and bought a commercial office/warehouse. I have always viewed real estate as my end-game (eventually) and want to learn more about the best ways to invest in it. I've never been a huge fan of residential buy and hold; I just feel like there are better returns out there with less risk & headache. I'm interested in both residential & commercial Lease-Options and Multi Unit properties (price-per-door). Also land development & retail. Can anyone share their opinion on what types of real estate investing offer the best return? I have some capital, but not enough to just start buying up properties cash. I have always heard that its better to use "other people's money" but I don't know exactly how to do that without sacrificing too much of my returns with an equity stake or interest. Maybe I'm missing something? I think its worth noting that I am NOT looking to "get-rich-quick", I am looking for long-term, stable investments that generate positive cash flow. My goal is to create long-term wealth for my family and future generations and I will do whatever it takes. Any like-minded people out there willing to share some advice for a novice like me to get started?? Thanks a million!