@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.

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

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?

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

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.

If I'm in your shoes (which I was a few years ago) I would recommend attending at least 1-2 real estate meetups a month to start putting yourself out there and networking with other players in your market. 

Maybe why I follow for the education...

Otherwise, bite the bullet and pay the real players in this area for what they provide (Buildium, Appfolio, RentManager, etc).

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