Any advise for a newbie

[Saemi Jung]

I am just starting to look into investing in real estate but afraid that  I won't make it and might end up failing with a lot of debt. I know researching helps minimize losses but just not sure where to start. Anyone mind sharing their stories? 

[Amber Forkey]

That will help. Some basic topics areas I would advise becoming familiar with are current market trends in your area for real estate, as well as financing opportunities that you'll be able to utilize (assuming you won't be paying straight cash for the property. For example FHA loans are available for multi family housing under 4 units but you must occupy one unit yourself. You may have heard the term "house-hacking" before, this is where you buy a multi unit property and live in one while your renters pay your mortgage and expenses for you. The benefit to financing with an FHA mortgage is the low down payment that's required (far less than the typical 20% down for a conventional loan, usually around 3-5% of the loan amount).

The property analysis calculator here on BiggerPockets will help you tremendously. Since there are so many numbers that go into analyzing a property, this resource will help keep the process as simple as possible while allowing you to see whether or not it's a viable investment option. The calculator will have you input amount for things like property taxes (which can be found on your county's website most times) property insurance (you can call any insurance agency and have them give you a quote on the property) and other factors such as vacancy rates, mortgage payment and property maintenance fees. 

Start analyzing and then when you find a property where the numbers work, submit an offer on it. 

I would start communicating with some of your local real estate agents now and let them know what you're looking for. Sometimes it takes talking to 3 or 4 agents before you find one you grove well with. They'll be the one to submit the offer on the property for you if it's listed on the MLS. Zillow is my go to when searching for properties but then again your area might offer RedFin which I've heard a lot of people speak highly of. The key is to just start looking at properties and becoming familiar with what's out there.