@Tony Cash , I just searched Bigger Pockets Money and BiggerPockets Money and found it both times.

I just started listening to Bigger Pockets last week, but I have been interested in real estate investing for the last year or so.

Every no brings you closer to a yes.With a limited track record you could get a partner on a deal, wholesale a deal until you have enough money to have a bigger deposit, or like @Peter Sanchez and @Alexander Felice mentioned house hacking.Real estate is amazing because you have unlimited options and have to develop the mindset that you are a real estate transactor.Let me know if you need help with anything and I would be happy to help!

This book truly changed my life, so much so that I bought a copy just to give to my brother in the hopes that he at age 27 could take advantage of what I'd already passed at age 31 (he's single and doesn't own a house yet, whereas I'm married and have a home).I have to admit, when I started listening to and reading Bigger Pockets I was thinking all about increasing earnings and didn't understand why I would "rob" myself in the mean time and be "needlessly frugal."

If I was you I would retain a lawyer for your court appearance and give him a heads up on the bigger picture.

From time to time you need to splurge on yourself.The strategy my wife and I have employed is to give ourselves small rewards.   

Bigger Pockets is a phenomenal resource connecting with those in the industry and getting started in REI.

@Logan Allec provided an outstanding explanation, and @Basit Siddiqi added couple good points.I just want to frame the bigger picture: the new law does NOT hurt ("hose", using your word) people who receive 1099-G for prior overpayment. 

My spouse WANTS to be supportive, but at this point is not interested in learning about risk mitigation - she mostly views RE as being 90% risk and 10% reward.

Hello Bigger pockets, I am a new long distance investor.