I feel like I've heard a few podcasts lately with guests that have done this strategy, unfortunately I don't remember their names.

Start learning with books, podcasts, courses, networking, building a support system, and preparing for financing.

Just getting started, and doing a lot of reading, listening to podcasts and educating myself.

I would use money from a HELOC that I have open to fund the down payment, but as @Scott Trench stated recently on the podcast, that is a short term solution, and I don't want to hold that $48k debt for more than a few months. 

For the STRs, there’s probably local podcasts or resources you could tune into.

I’ve educated myself with books like Rich Dad Poor Dad and real estate podcasts, and I know I’ll succeed.I’d love advice from others who’ve been in my shoes: Is it okay to start investing in a different area if one strategy isn’t working?

There are a lot of podcasts with Cody Davis, a very young guy that learned how to buy commercial property with zero down, seller financed.

The last few years I’ve seen it as pointless, as it was never a hard rule to be followed explicitly but a suggestion, and it seems like the only ones today who give it any credence are those brand new to REI and have heard it discussed on the older episodes of the podcasts or read about it in the books BP published 5+ years ago.

A few recommendations - learn as much as you can from books, podcasts, and attending free or low-cost real estate investor meetups in your area (in-person is best).

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..