If you want to network or ask specific questions about your local market, go to your local real estate forum and connect with investors from your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86-local-real-estate-networking5.

I am looking to learn about the industry and set a goal of making my first purchase this year if it makes financial sense. 

I buy houses in the Memphis market.
Terry Clothier REI Nation

My market is houston text.

Wow, what a rollercoaster 2024 was for the housing market.

Make sure you learn the markets.

Has anyone used the FuelPoint lead generation platform? I just sat in on a demo and am curious if anyone has experience working with them. It seems like a lot more of these lead-gen groups are popping up. 

That shows real estate can be possible for anyone; in my opinion, I know everyone has unique and challenging situations, but in principle, anyone who can follow some basic budget fundamentals can save up enough for a down payment.Grateful BiggerPockets continues to bring more people into the industry!

In our experience, a well-vetted VA can help streamline deal sourcing, initial due diligence, and administrative tasks—allowing investors to focus on strategy and decision-making.In our team, we take pride in hiring professionals who truly understand the nuances of the industry.

In hindsight, they gave loans to people who were terrible tenants, who weren't going to change just because they now owned a house.In response to the Great Recession, higher lending criteria was forced on the industry by the government.