You and me both that NYC has become a no investor zone unless you have $500k to play with.If you have your team ready and that amount of capital on stand by, NYC neighbors NJ has many properties to start with.I just purchase a property in Newark for under $40k 2 family distress condition.

With in 5-7 years I would like to be able to financially stable, that is to say that at this point I can cover all living expenses as well as be able to be able to purchase a car, or new appliances, or cover medical bills, all without having to worry about if I'll enough money to eat that week. 

If you guys could give me your opinions as well as maybe share where you were financially on your first flip and how you went about your first flip (success stories).

More importantly, a GOOD realtor who takes your criteria, financial situation, short-term & long-term goals into consideration is going to be a huge asset to your REI career. 

I set up my Solo 401K trust (Which is NOT subject to UBIT) through @Dmitriy Fomichenko at Sense Financial and he's very knowledgeable this subject. 

I have been working in the financial services industry for almost 10 years now and thus had quite some exposure to other areas of investing (from private markets to public markets).

Buyers and sellers in commercial need you, as their broker/agent, to help them make financially intelligent sales and purchases and to really make your mark you need to be very well connected.

Worst case scenario it is your own asset, not marital property, and can help you out financially if you need it.

I am thinking about starting with wholesaling so I can fully learn the ins and outs when it comes to real estate investing with minimal financial risk.

My goal is to eventually gain financial freedom (teachers generally don't have this option if they only teach!)