If you made money on your first deal, that's a bonus... but the most important aspect is acquired knowledge.

Currently the team I work with works with investors of all levels and at all aspects of the so feel free to PM me with any questions.I am curious to know if others find beneficial to get themselves involved in the communities they plan on investing in?

Make sure you talk to a CPA and Attorney regarding all of the tax and legal aspects, someone who knows the state you live and will be doing business in.  

The lease terms must be over 30 years but less than 99.A master lease has some of these aspects, but does not have the advantages of NNN leases where you can get a mortgage on it as it's treated as real estate.I know an investor who does these deals in NY who targets owners owning properties for a long time, don't want to sell due to capital gains, too old to manage the properties.

I spent two summers painting houses and apartments and gutting houses so I am experienced and confident in that aspect, I believe that myself (maybe along with some friends) can do everything that a rehab would need but some in depth electric work.

This is the one aspect of investing that as opened so many doors for me and continues to do so.

@Candice Banks When you say "up and coming areas of DC" Are you talking about an area that's currently a Class C+ area transitioning into a Class B area, or are you willing to go to a Class C, or C- area where you can get a 2br for the $300K range but the up and coming aspect may take a little longer than it would in an area transitioning from a Class C+ to a Class B area.  

2) Avoid Misunderstandings - be up front and clear about every aspect and with every person - Do Make full disclosures, put it in writing, people have bad memories3) Avoid putting your (career) ladder up against the wrong wall and climbing it - Do think about what you want for an outcome and walk the steps backward on paper to outline how to get where and who you want to be

I think the delayed gratification route is pretty rewarding in that aspect.

So from my first month (less than a month, maybe like 3 weeks now) of diving into real estate I have found out that finding DEALS is the most crucial aspect for real estate investing.