As far as meetups go, you can find a lot of local events posted here on BiggerPockets: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-...I also have a list of Chicago meetups that I can share with you as well.

I've been on the western slope for over 30 yrs.I built my primary, its; Slab on grade, stucco, concrete roof, painted with E-84n roof soffits and tailings fire caulk (anti-ember) vulcan fire vents, 4 car wide concrete driveway, extra large house numbers, red 3/4" hoses on reals @every corner, completely denuded of vegetation 100ft.

We all know those that get on BP that are LPS and now own 5000 units or Co GP with no real ownership etc.. so those are legit questions to bad OP got so defensive and did not just answer the questions. 

Unless you have a Roth SDIRA, there are significant downsides to investing in real estate with an IRA.  

How does a new real estate agent become a successful real estate agent?

May negative cashflow until fixed.3) Buy established business: assuming you mean something other than real estate related.

It’s great to see how excited and determined you are to start your real estate journey. 

@Erica King Sounds like this is more of a personal budgeting concern rather than a real estate one.

"Pasadena Real Estate Investors Meetup Group".

Cash flow is important, but appreciation, principal paydown, and tax advantages are also key factors in long-term real estate success.Your logic makes sense—if your investment property’s rent offsets your primary mortgage and you’re in a strong appreciation market, it could still be a great long-term play.