You have to look at every opportunity as a dollar and what you are know playing is a numbers game.  

I'm from Dixon il, a rural community. I am new to this. Have looked at a couple properties and want to invest in either a 2 or 3 unit property with option of living in.  As a first investment would I be better off liv...

You will find that there is financing available that does not require you to have great credit as long as your deal is good and you have some skin in the game.

Welcome to the game Bill!

I am an Indiana Boy, so I guess I have a biased opinion on the subject, however I am also one with not a whole lot of $, and I just can dabble here and there in real estate, buts it hard to keep with up with "Big Dawgs" in this game.

I would suggest partnering up with an experienced investor for your first few projects to help you get some skin in the game and gain some hands on experience.

However, this can be a complicated game and you really need to make sure you hash out a strategy with a real estate CPA - not a generalist.

I would suggest building a strong team around you for your first few investments to help you get some skin in the game.

It sounds like you have a very solid game plan and vision.

Plus as you get further in the game you are going to want reserve funds.We bought our first house with a VA loan 0% down.