Folks are so "passionate" about str's right now I am afraid they are going to start burning us at the stake soon.

It might be a truism, but follow your passion and your instincts.

I used my passion and talent to create a small business.

If you feel it's your passion and you can see yourself succeeding, go for it full force with out allowing any excuse to set you back.

I've been reading 3 books a week trying to get some knowledge since right now I am low on knowledge but high on time and passion to learn.

Perhaps your the Now, take a business minded individual and pair it with passion that's exactly what I am and most investors are.

I think as a young investor (especially if are not married and don't have any kids yet) you should focus your efforts and time of owning and building small businesses that you are passionate about ( via S-Corps ).

I would definitely like to treat you to your favorite restaurant and talk about our common passion. 

I've joined BP to learn as much as possible and to meet individuals who share the same passion for real estate! 

Ian, I would encourage you since you have found you have a passion for building a career out of real estate investing, However I would suggest you take the time to make sure that whatever deal you choose to make will be one that will really work especially if you will be working with someone else's money.