@Anastasia MonroTo achieve financial independence in real estate, focus on boosting savings, improving credit, getting pre-approved for a mortgage, searching for properties with high rental demand, researching local laws and regulations, building a team, staying educated, preparing for property maintenance and management, and being patient and persistent.

No question is stupid - its just not refined to get an educated answer.  

I figure the absolute worst case is the educational portion of most RE training is useful for anyone involved with RE investing just to understand the knowledge domain better, you know?

Either way I feel like I'll come out ahead even it's just in the education I'm getting.  

Maybe why I follow for the education...

Toledo REIA and PIN (Toledo Property Investors Network) are both professional organizations that might help further your education and networking locally.

BP offers free online videos and educational courses for you to watch and learn from.

Successful investments require education, realistic expectations, patience, and diligence.Good luck!

There’s plenty of educational content out there (books, podcasts, YouTube, forum posts, blogs, you name it!)

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!