Hello BP Forums Im a 17 year old high school student and I am planning on purchasing my first property this summer when I move out for college (Visalia area) and was hoping some of the experienced buyers on this website could steer me in the right direction on the best way to do it.

If you don't fully understand vacancy rates, CAP rates, and the effects of interest rates on the overall value of commercial property though you should probably steer clear.

If you are unfamiliar with it (or don't know quite enough) I would steer clear until you do know more.

What you are wanting to do is dangerously close to redlining or steering if you aren't already there...

There are also some who suggest against talking to a lawyer because they always seem to steer you towards the option that generates the most fees for them.  

The simplest way is to join your local REIA...They will steer you toward contractors that they have used successfully, as well as steer you away from the "not so good" time and money wasters as well.

Rules of thumb are are only useful as far as they can steer you in generally the right direction.

Can anyone steer me in the right direction or helpful tips?

To steer back a bit to the core of the question, what is then the economic value of the non-capital contributing partner in a relationship working on an unfamiliar asset class?

Everyone has their own opinion on many topics but I have yet to be steered in the wrong direction.