If you can learn to recognize what a deal truly looks like, you will be far ahead of most people getting started.  

The drama with my rental in Hawaii never ends.I just found out that the tenants, who are married, are going through a marital separation right now as the lease is coming to an early end (I got them to sign a Quit & Vacate letter to terminate the lease early, a whole other story...)The lease names them both -- John and Jane Doe ("Tenant"), and they both signed the lease as Tenant.When they signed the lease, they gave me a cashiers check from the credit union, but it does not name them on the cashiers check.I know that the money came from Jane's account, as during the interview process she said she inherited a lot of money and that she would be paying me.Considering that they are probably going to be maritally separated, who do I write the security deposit refund check (less expenses) payable to?

Many here will likely recognize the name "Sharon Lechter" in this article:http://www.districtadministration.com/article/arizona-requires-financial-literacy-schools

I am also trying to invest from afar and even though I have family in the area to view the property for me I recognize that they aren't investment minded so I am also working with a property management team.

Also recognize there are CPAs that are better than others and can help you come up with a plan based on your personal circumstances.  401k's and defined benefit plans are great vehicles to thwart some of the taxes.

Certain states will recognize RE licenses from other states, and while you may have to pay them a fee and/or sit for their exam, you will bypass most of the first-time licensing requirements for that state.But that is all state by state dependent.

@justin @Justin jr Carriganwelcome to BP and with your radio background have you thought about starting your own podcast where you interview successful investors?

Fill in the foundation below.Check out the Start Here page http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthere Check out BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide - A fantastic free book that walks through many of the key topics of real estate investing.Check out the free BiggerPockets Podcast - A weekly podcast with interviews and a ton of great advice.

I'm a full-time DJ and music engineer and was blown away when Rihanna's producer for "B*tch Better Have My Money" brought up Rich Dad Poor Dad in his interview on Pensado's Place and talks about the importance of financial advice and awareness.

You can do this by looking on Craigslist, zillow rentals, call numbers on signs in front of other for rent houses.Also, try looking for property managers in your area and set up a consultation/interview.