We pretty much have the same plan, I'm looking at putting $50-70k down, but would like to have some spare money in case it requires repairs.

I always keep a spare box in the attic of each home in case I need to replace a board.I've considered switching to the click lock laminate, but .68 per sqft is so cheap to replace if needed. 

It could end up being smaller and more compact.

My bigger goal is to expand from there as a real estate investor to have all my expenses covered by my investments with more to spare.

I have 2 spare water heaters in the warehouse, I have spare stoves, fridges, and a few faucets, toilets, tons of shark bites, etc. 

Rent out the spare rooms and possibly cut your living expenses to zero, or close to it.

It's a quick course that you can do in your spare time.

Originally posted by Mike Andrews:I've been saying for a long time that the key to success is not formal education, but knowledge….I must say that I’m totally addicted to Khanacademy and will often take a class in my spare time for fun, than idly surf the web, but I’m not sure I agree with you Mike Andrews.

These people are busy, and their time is money, so it needs to be worth it for them to help you out - most people aren't just going to do it out of the kindness of their hearts because they just don't have the time to spare (and they get asked to be mentors all the time).It probably makes sense to work with someone who already has assets in the area, since they will be familiar with rents, comps, etc. and can best advise you.

This includes the mileage of driving to home depot for that spare key.