A real estate license lets people know you're more serious than an avid HGTV fan :-)Also, working with a top agent can teach you a lot of secrets and tips!

I specifically decided to teach REI because I saw the dangers that many "Cashflow" Investors were about to have in regards to the Financial Crisis that occurred in 2008. 

At this point he has taken possession of your property and is in the process of teaching you who is in charge, he owns you.This is a tenant you do not want to keep so even if he turns over the key you will need to get rid of him asap.

It is risk free and when teach you the aspect of both flipper and buy and hold investor.

I teach high school math, coach, own and operate a 500 customer lawncare business. 

I guess I was just supposed to know these things, shame on public schooling for not actually teaching us these types of things that ACTUALLY matter in life.

You can help by finding a house, and if they have construction and/or contracting experience, they can teach you through the rehab process.How do you find houses?

Wholesaling because it requires the least amount of money and teaches the most about your local market, other investors and how to analyze a good deal.  

While I cannot offer much advice on this path because I have only a small level of experience with this, I do know it's possible.I think your best bang for your buck would be partnering with an investor who will teach you everything, or getting a job related to the real estate industry and learn as much as you can until you can qualify or find that first deal.  

I was wondering if anyone was able to tap in to their STRS's teaching pension to use for a down payment.