Spanking new Investor out of DC. Where do I to start!

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I am a new investor out of the washington dc area. Actually northern VA.
I have been interested in investing in real estate for quite some time but have not yet taken the first step. I have read parts of a few books. I have listened to tapes. But for some reason I still do not feel ready, but at the same time I cannot wait to get started. It seems there is alot of competition among investors to find the great deals. And all of the experienced investors and big wigs snatch up all of the good deals.
Could anyone tell me what my first step should be? are condos worth investing in? What is the best way to find the good deals. It seems that REO's are not a good bargain after closing costs, rehabbing costs, and lender fees, it seems you'd be lucky to break even.

!!!!!!!!!! Help!!!!!!!!!!!!! :mrgreen:
Regards,
Daniel