Building a strong network will help you navigate challenges and uncover new opportunities.When you are ready to take the plunge, consider starting with smaller, manageable investments to gain experience and build confidence. 

My husband and I have a STR/MTR in our primary residence in Colorado and ready to take the plunge to buy something in a new market. 

Hi Anissa,Congratulations on taking the plunge into real estate investing 👍Stick with the Midwest for cashflow.I've always liked Ohio, Indiana and Michigan.Just make sure you have a "growth mindset" when it comes to these cash-flowing markets.Most tend to be tertiary markets in somewhat lower socio economic areas.To achieve a nice return on investment you will need to build a larger portfolio.Over the years, I have witnessed many investors getting frustrated in not achieving desirable enough returns when owning 1-2 properties.Find the right team first before looking for deals.The team can either make or break your investment.Wishing you much success.

"Something", whether that's a recession, stock market plunge, housing price plummet etc will change those plans. 

Finally took the plunge and decided to post on here.  

I took the plunge and found a couple of investors, and it really took off from there. 

Even though we have been researching and learning for the last 6-7 months before we took the "plunge", we know there is still so much to learn as we continue building our portfolio of purchased properties.

Ultimately we decided against taking the plunge.  

DJ Cummins Good on you for taking the plunge, the extra knowledge and income will definitely help on the investment side..

Personally, I sure hope it will rise and stabilize, plunging crude price is not good for anybody, except for my gas gussler. :)