Don't try to convince everyone you are an idiot before you even begin...they might believe you.Just be proud to say what you really are, which seems to be an intelligent guy who knows the area, has a lot of work experience in the field (and life experience) and is eager to learn more about REI and buy his first property.

Convicts frequently have a good understanding of laws, an advantage that people tend to underestimate their intelligence, and knowledge of how the criminal justice system works.

You are an intelligent young man - keep it fun, keep it interesting.Books are informative because they regurgitate information you NEED to know - some books are great because the stories teach you, reveal to you accountability, responsibility, and a lesson wrapped up in font you can take in and put yourself there.

However, I would focus on reading as much information as possible to have intelligent conversations with the team you'll need to build.

I realized a lump-sum profit on a tax-lien property I sold this year and am extremely interested in hearing any intelligence on it. 

Even with the rent thing out of the picture I’m still currently looking for an intelligent individual to learn from.

You are correct though in your understanding that you have to go about it in a careful and intelligent manner.

Study the market and when you have done enough study, and have some intelligent questions to ask, come back and ask them.

I figure - if they have half the intelligence and 10x wealth, I’m sure to be as successful.

Ask intelligent questions until I can contribute meaningfully to the forum4.