Hi BP friends,I'm beginning the real estate investing journey, and while I'm still in the research/learning phase of things (reading, REIA meetings, etc.), I already feel a bit of paralysis on what type of RE I should consider.

Also good success with owner financing, and to a lesser extent, friends and family.- Tom

Please click on the links, give them a read, and share your thoughts in the comments.First is a post that I feel will help not get overwhelmed with the amount of info that is here on BP:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52761-the-simple-guide-to-getting-started-on-bp The second is a post that will help get you focused with your real estate investing goals:https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/5868/52743-im-new-to-bp-any-advice-would-be-appriciatedThe last one is a post that will help you choose an “investor friendly” real estate agent.

Ultimately, my equity partner is a good friend, and time was of the essence.

The only recommendation I can make is to find the people you want to help, and make friends with them.

A 1031 is very easy to understand and most can be found online for free or through a phone call to your accountant or a friend who's an accountant. 

@Jordan Moorhead is correct Austin, like most cities, is NOT short term friendly.

I have a friend on the West Coast who is private lender and he had to foreclose on a property near me.

Even with family + friends.

I have a good friend that is looking to purchase a industrial property for their iron rebar business.