Have a reserve account to save up for those that comes from the positive cash flow.  

still have debt (including mortgage), but would love to start learning how to get ready for retirement.

Recently retired from teaching and anxious to get started investing in real estate. 

At first I was thinking that I would wait until I payed off my student loans to start investing, but now I'm thinking I may try and purchase some cash flowing properties to help cover my student loan payments so I can use my income to save for more.

It occurred to me that I may be able to save a few thousand dollars if I act as my own agent.  

I recently found a retiring gentleman trying to sell three 1\1 units in the same complex.

Not necessarily as good as it sounds due to having to meet the standard deduction, which is around $12k or $13k for families, I believe, before any real savings kick in.

I believe that just based on everything I've also studied about marketing, and why I decided to use my small saving of $3,500 to take the plunge.

My advise.... stay focused, save some money, and INVEST in real estate - long term buy and hold is the path to real wealth - take your time and set your goals on buying your first rental property - as an owner occupant if possible.good luck

Basically, I want to get to the point where I can start earning at a level where I can move out of my parents house, pay down my loans (hopefully before my own [future] kids are racking up their own), and perhaps even retire... ...all before I die.