Jason: i am a retired financial planner that made some investment mistakes that now make it necessary to immerse myself in real estate to recover.mistake one. realize investing in realestate is a business. do not invest in a market just because you live there and can save money by managing it yourself. if that market is not profitable for investment you will not earn the return you need to succeed and if there is a downturn (like we have now) you can take huge losses.

He was willing to get immersed, and it paid off for him handsomely.

Ive recently joined as well and have been immersing myself in all of the knowledge on BP.

Currently immersing myself in the educational aspects of the industry and came here to see what I can learn from this community.

I want to immerse myself in the culture, learn the market place, creative financial strategies, and exit plans while saving money to invest in multi family units. 

Once you become immersed in this culture, the help and mentorship that you are seeking will be easy to find!

Join the State Self Storage Association and immerse yourself in it. 3.  

From there, explore more within the "Learn" tab and make your way to other How-To Guides and immerse yourself in the podcasts. 

Recently discovered the BP community and have quickly immersed myself.

It doesn't matter if you are young or old, totally new or need to build upon your experience.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community about your seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site and with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.You are here at the Forum, but, should raise your mouse to the top and explore the otherheadings displayed.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of bookrecommendations.Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere http://www.biggerpockets.com/ubg http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets 25 Tips for Real Estate SuccessAfter becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of my above suggestions, take action to snag your first real estate investment deal if new or add to your existing holdings if you have prior experience.Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.You must immerse yourself in the RE marketplace locally in your neighborhood or afar if the situation warrants it.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"