New member from Boston, Massachussets

[Max O.]

Hey all, 

I may have posted on here last year at some point, but I don't remember whether I actually did or not. Either way, I am a newbie from the Boston, Massachusetts  area (Burlington currently), and I am trying to get started in real estate investment. 

I have been lurking for a while, so I have seen most of the newbie resources. I am hoping that in addition to directing me to the standard newbie resources, somebody can point me to the proper forums where I can ask my specific questions.

Here is my current situation. I am a software engineer in the Boston area. My salary would be more than enough for most people. However, I have student loans and I figure I should also save money through other avenues. My situation is delicate, but certainly not unique. I am looking for some advice on how to start off.  I am also looking to move to another city soon, though I am not sure where.

Would someone mind directing me to the forums where I can ask my specific questions? 

 - How to start off when I have loans

 - How to start off in massachusetts

 - What research should I do and what data should I collect about a city's neighborhoods before deciding to invest there?

Thanks for reading this far!

Max