BP serves as an excellent platform for networking and ongoing education.

➡️Network and educate investors.

Apartments, Student Housing, Self Storage, Commercial, etc.The SEC classifies a DST as a security so they must be purchased from a financial advisor.The costs very A LOT by financial advisor and DST Sponsor.

Build a strong team with experienced lenders, real estate agents, and property managers, and educate yourself through books and podcasts.

I am wondering if my first steps (past the education part) is to build a network of people who know, like, and trust me through posting content like newsletters, articles, podcasts, doing webinars, going to events (aka build my brand), or, should I first find a deal and then raise capital?

Bigger Pockets is a great place for education and networking and is full of great content.I recommend that you check out the following resources:1.

Starting out can be overwhelming, but it’s great that you’re getting educated early.

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

He was at the heart (and brain) of a fantastic educational operation – one that was undervalued because he did not charge much for it.

Of course outright theft or dishonesty on the part of the sponsor or investment advisor is a completely different matter.