I saw a few properties in Newark and other urban towns but reading about how war zones are risky.

With the market where it's at your going to need to spend at least $50k to own anything worth owning.Give The Ultimate Guide to Grading Cleveland Neighborhoods a read.

Make sure to read the Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing

I guess nothing formalized, I've been reading books, watching webinars, and listening to podcasts. 

Then, download the BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginner's Guide and start reading some more!!

Any as luck would have it, I now find myself between jobs (between careers really) and I can't qualify for a personal residence until I'm employed again.  

Start reading through the forums on here and get to know all the different strategies.

Thanks all for reading, Nick

Hey BP Community,I am new to this site and I haven’t invested in real estate yet.I’ve been spending a lot of time educating myself (reading books, listening to podcasts, reading blogs, etc).

., I'm not currently in the rental game, but, do read a lot.Here's a quote from that Zillow blog:- "So let’s say you collect $1,200 per month in rent, and your expenses are $450 per month.