Newbie from Texas

[Patrick Smith]

Hi, I'm Patrick from Wylie (Near Dallas), Texas.  I've been somewhat interested in RE investing for many years, ever since reading Rich Dad, Poor Dad, among other books. Alas, I have been sidetracked and am now looking into it again. Finally at a point where I can begin to put significant amounts of money aside to save for a down payment.

My ultimate goal is pretty modest to some I've seen. I want enough passive income to replace my current ($3k/mo) and a little more so I can have more time to do the things I enjoy and spend time with my family. I don't need that much. Just like the Mexican Fisherman. At this point I'm mostly considering buy and hold rentals, though as I learn I'm getting more ideas. We shall see...

In the meantime, I work in IT, though it's not really what I want to do anymore.