In need of tips for real estate investing

[Ryan Pounds]

Im in need of someone who can help me learn the basics of investing and or flipping properties. Im only 15 but im open to any basic tips that can help me be successful  in the long run when i get my real estate license at the age of 18. I am also in need of experienced real estate investors who can coach me online about additional information i need to know also, but any help is welcome. 

Thank you.

[Mindy Jensen]

Welcome to BiggerPockets, @Ryan Pounds. What a small world, I used to live in Crete and my sister teaches at Grant in Chicago Heights.

Being 15, you're up against quite a bit. You cannot legally be held to a contract, and therefore it will be much more difficult for you to get started before you turn 18. Not impossible, but certainly an obstacle.

Not sure how long it takes to get licensed in IL, but look into that. You can take the coursework before you turn 18, so that the day you do turn 18, you can take the state test and get your license.

My sister just moved out of her condo in Tinley Park - there are some great opportunities there, along with CCH, Matteson, The Heights, Sauk Village. I'd stick to this side of the state line for now, though.

Get started learning your market. Wherever you're choosing to invest, connect with an agent and have them send you listings so you can get a feel for what is out there and what properties are selling for, both rehabbed and fixer-uppers.

Do you have a job? If not, try to find a local investor who needs some help. At 15, you can't drive, but when does 16 happen? Will you have a car or access to one? Making yourself valuable to an investor by doing things they don't want to or don't have time for is a great way to try it out, without committing to an actual property and discovering that it isn't for you.