This does not mean you are not smart, it just means you have a lot to learn about this topic. 

Have been working in Technology for the past 14 years and love what I do and wish to continue my full time employment.

I still work a W2 (because I like what I do, though I don't have to any more), and that, and being (mostly) smart with my money is what got me started. 

But other than that it's a smart way to get started.

What you did was not only humane, but also a smart business thing.

big forum, reddit, irc, twitter user here.. so aware of the powerful information on discussion sites.My first post was over in starting out.. as I'm excited to learn what others have been doing and hopefully crack the code on owning my own house in DC where the real estate market is bananas.Background: I work in technology security and doing well as the DC Area economy is great. 

This forum description references hardware, so I figured this was a good place to ask if anyone has heard of the Flo water meter (they're still in beta testing). It monitors water flow and can detect leaks based on ch...

So after I finish college in 2008 I was fortunate to either buy my dream car or save it in the bank or be smart and use it to pay 25% of my student loans.

These are not my observations, these came directly from the Texas Real Estate Institute which has some really smart people doing research there.  

Norhtwest Indiana rental market can be great if you are smart about it. the taxes are lower here which if you do things right you should be able to cashflow more.