If you're interested in managing condominium or homeowner's associations the Community Associations Institute is one that I see frequently.I can't say that I've read many books on the industry aside from course texts.  

But these past 5 years have proven to me that I cannot rely on my  industry (advertising) for financial security.

I thought I was new to the industry, but now I see these people on BP that are very successful in much less time than I've been active in real estate, so I guess I'm not new, just inexperienced. 

What was once the envy of the world for its pioneering automobile industry has become an also-ran on the world stage.

My employer, the owner of the bars, started off as a builder, and his family has been in the housing industry for 40 years.  

I am ALWAYS learning something since this industry is always growing and changing.

I am fortunate to live in this city and I have been involved in the real estate and finance industry since 2002.

You have this huge rental industry in the Mid west...

Economy here is strong, we have strong tech, health and oil/gas industries that are cranking along right now.  

As far as finding a mentor or someone who would give me a job in the real estate industry, exactly how would you have me go about it?