Greg Boots, one of our resident experts on the subject of law, has responded to this post with a full article on our blog that is a MUST READ!

When you are an expert in an area and know how to estimate after repair costs, you will confident making offers.

I have a branch II pest control license and am a bee expert.

I'm not an expert at REOs, I'm sure there's an expert here on BP - you might want to check around.

Become a true expert that people want to learn from.Think about the best movies.

First, I'm certainly no expert on macroeconomics, buts that's never stopped me from giving my opinion

Our local CFA society had an expert on China come in and give a lecture several months ago.

Again, Yale.I'd like to hear what some of the experts think about the area.

You don't have to be an expert at all parts of the deal,  just focus on what you are best at or like the most, then connect with those who can compliment your skills.I can't give you advice on what you should or shouldn't invest in without knowing more about you: your goals, objectives, risk tolerance, financial condition, etc. 

Then you become the expert, the go-to guy and build a reputation.I spent $250 about 25 years ago.