You came into a thread with a non-sequitor and are putting forth advice and cautions, while it is quite clear to anybody with extensive knowledge in this field that you do not have any specific or relevant expertise or background in the field you are speaking of.Bigger Pockets is a fantastic resource, but this type of interjection without foundation is exactly what makes such a site dangerous to those new to a field and looking for information.As experts in this field, Dmitriy and I spend a considerable amount of time and effort providing helpful, relevant and meaningful information on the topic of self-directed retirement plans to the BP community.  

Meet up in a family friendly (for investors with kids) restaurant and just network and move forward.I'm hoping this post can spark a meet-up for beginning investors that want to start off with like minded people.

But that's the point or else we'd all be millionaires.That little transaction sparked my interest in REI and here I am today.  

Our area has been depressed for quite a while, but recently won several promising bids and quite a number of jobs are coming back to the area.  I'd like to start contacting and locating some builders for some lots I h...

Hopefully, now people can find me, if they are so inclinded and we can start some meaningful discussions about commercial real estate.

Chicago is my first choice because it's convenient for my work, a city where I have family, and somewhere where I feel I could cultivate a meaningful social life.

Even talking to someone that maybe gets a spark to get an idea they could be financially free and forge their own path in life on their terms instead of stuck in a rat race living to pay the bills.2.

Follow up with them in meaningful ways and they will pay it back. 

My drive to learn about real estate investing was sparked by reading "Rich Dad Poor Dad" by Robert Kiyosaki.  

My hurdles to overcome before making my first investment include figuring out financing, learning to understand the market I am investing in, and developing an understanding of how to structure partnerships and/or syndications.I am looking forward to making meaningful connections on bigger pockets, and digging into the forums and educations materials available here.