(just kidding)I have a few close friends that are general contractors, floor layers, painters, etc.

I've always loved real estate, even as a kid helping my dad (also military) look for homes as we moved from place to place.

It's a great place for young professionals, and in the last few years, more families with little kids.

In any case, could you recommend a basic guide/strategy around what to expect and how best to prepare to capitalize on this opportunity (homework, how much capital, bidding, continuing to make the quarterly tax payments, foreclosure, risks)?

Kids will change your life (for the better mostly) ;-) I'm sure the market will be waiting when you're ready to get back into it.

I'm a big kid, almost 48 years old, who feels more like 25 years old.I entertain mostly at young teen events.

I will do some homework on the web but any personal experiences would be greatly appreciated!

<-- Don't worry, (mostly) kidding.

That is a nightmare.It took Kid Rock 3 months to get the city out to the house he rehabbed to do inspections.

You want your name in the back of the mind of the public, then when prompted, your name is recognized.Professional companies use signage, fly by nights don't.Might add a "rider" on the side of your sign and post a copy of your permit too.In some areas I've seen signs pulled in the evening and they are put up early in the AM, kids and theft.