By the same token, being an informed consumer is important to your financial health.  

It states that tenants (and people in general) will consume more of something that they don't have to pay for.

Also write down your action steps you need to take to reach your goals.  

This is the best place to learn and grow, just take some action.

@Shana Miller - Welcome to BP, you are on you way to conquering your REI fears.After becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of your immersion on this site, take action to snag your first real estate investment deal.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!"

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!"

I've been a member for a while and have recently decided to take some action and acquire my first buy and hold property.

Best advice i have is to click on the "Learn" option in the top navigation and pace yourself...there is so much information on BP that you will not be able to consume it all in one sitting.

Bruce has been in the trenches for a long time and now his sons are also fighting the good fight so they have TONS of real market actionable experience.

I would call it an ideal location for those that wish to be in the middle of the action and have everything within walking distance of their home.