I'm completely new to RE, with no experience, but I am really keen to learn and understand how I can invest in US RE from Australia.

@Jay Helms Noted, we'll get out to as many of those as we can, especially Bagelheads, I'm pretty keen on my breakfast foods...Thanks for all that!

and for those that live in situ I would be keen on that asset class and stack them up.. that's what I do one of my clients in the last 3 years I have taken them from zero to 220 doors.. but they work it they live it its their full time job.. and its a JOB make no mistake running 220 low end rentals if you don't stay on it you will get your lunch handed to you.

Wife is not keen to sell though..lol!

I'm not on the ground in Pittsburgh (I'm in Australia) but my girlfriend's from Pittsburgh so I'm keen to do whatever networking I can via my keyboard so that when I do get over there I don't waste any time.

I've heard of lenders but I am not too keen on that aspect of financial help but I heard is a great asset.

Oh and I just spoke to a family friend who syndicates 50+ unit buildings in Orlando and he's mighty bullish on self storage and having done my research I tend to agree, so very keen to explore this area too. 

But, if you're keen on a rocket-like portal / interface - Kiavi would be the best way to go. 

Currently, I'm looking to dip my toes into personal investment - specifically, I'm very keen to learn more about the opportunity/technicalities involved with combination owner-occupied/rental properties and whether this is really a feasible arrangement or what the implications in getting financing for such a deal could be. 

-Plan out systems for collecting rent, communication with tenants and repair requests-Do a thorough inspection and be keen on foundation issues (floor curvature and beams in basement), boiler/furnace unit, wiring, flooring and make sure to check the roof.