The type of assets you buy will be related to how much money you have.If you are looking to place 50k etc. then it is more challenging.

I am barely starting and j am facing this simple challenge Jesse .

Also, its never too early to start; build your credit up by being reliable and strategic in opening and purchasing things and challenge yourself to learn cocontinuously.

i appreciate the opportunity to share ideas and learn from others in a community environment. 

I have no experience at all on RE and I'm up for the challenge.

What are the biggest challenges / downsides to the industry?

But if you want to make your property a smoke free environment best to start asap.

I see some challenges in the local market (high first cost, high property taxes, older building stock, etc...) but also see a lot of positives (low vacancy rates, stable real estate prices).  

The challenge in investing education starts with the fly into town gurus who don't know your market and just want your money with minimal support.  

In that environment you would be a real speculator to build.