@Jackie Lange I shared a bottle of Silver Oak a few months back with Bob Lucroy and Walter and I had lunch last time I was in Jackson..

In Ignore Everybody the author relates a story of an acquantiance who had a corporate job but had a passion for his hobby of antique silver spoons.

I know for gold, you have recommended the 1/10 oz gold eagle.

I'm sure you'll see the silver lining on the cloud your friend is trying to cast over you.

I have invested in hedge funds, gold silver,stocks bonds and various other business to include car lots,pizza joint,construction business,pawn shop,and other things i am to embarrassed to mention.

Some general facts to consider about me: 1) Age: 25 2) Located in Houston, TX 3) Current net worth: $173,000 4) Debt: Primary Mortgage, no credit card debt 5) Income: Salary from work is $63,000 plus $1,500 a month in rent that I am currently getting from friends on a 3 bedroom condominium. 6) Liquid assets: about $15,000 worth of gold and silver at today's market price, $62,000 in liquid stocks that are not in a 401k or IRA.

There is a good monthly REIA in Silver Spring you should check out.

Best of luck getting started and BP is a great source of knowledge and help for us new investors as well as veterans.I would suggest checking out the podcasts http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/p...So much great information in each one as well as motivation/inspiration.War Eagle!

San Antonio is the nearest major city to the Eagle Ford shale which is currently the largest and most active shale play in North America.

One silver lining to being in an expensive market is that a lot of folks will simply be priced out of the game and/or simply hit a mental block.