I'd have to say my Grandma got me interested...Read my BiggerPocket article on how my Grandma got me startedWhat Grandma Taught Me About Real Estatehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2008/06/23/what-grandma-taught-me-about-real-estate/I continue because I can do some good for foreclosure victims...and it's the only retirement vehicle that will keep pace with inflation.Our favorite holding period is forever.

It is the only vehicle I know especially at my very young age of 52....

Be sure you have your buyers lined up ahead of time, be sure you have an out in the contract

I'm very glad I went ahead and read the book.

Call them and ask them what lenders they know of and/or endorse for loan programs catering to or specific to first-time homebuyers.These 3 sources should give you a head start and a good overview of your best options.good luck.

Had I put the information I had in use and started RE investing then I would be much further ahead now.

Some quick-fix upgrades that might help include:[list]Offer free Internet acces (e.g. if you're near college; $50/mo)Install in-unit laundry ($600 appliances + $500-$1,000 install)Offer free gym memberships (Planet Fitness is $10/mo)[/list:u]Each of these likely costs less than another month's vacancy and might bring your units up to speed, or ahead of the pack.

Heowns 22 Ferraris, 14 Rolls Royces, and over 200 well-restored antiqueDusenbergs, Packards, and other vehicles."

If you you buy with no money down and you break even after monthly expenses then you're still ahead of the game because you have appreciation, mortgage paydown, and you're 1 rent increase away from positive cash flow.

Being a business owner and having some cash will put you light years ahead of other new investors.