I kept jumping in and out of the pool and learned a lot of "Creative REI" methods although I was never able to gather the self confidence to put theory into practice.I served in the US Army for 14 years combined active and reserve including a tour in Iraq in 06-07 at which time my wife and I purchased our first home and instead of going with the REO that needed work we went with a more middle ground outdated but move in ready home at double + the price.

As many have mentioned, investing in a fund provides diversification and is really a vote of confidence in the management team in place whereas investing in a specific project requires confidence in both the management team as well as the project in question.

You should find out when the President's term is up, however you can always force a vote of no-confidence in the President out of cycle.  

I'm confident in it this time though, I have also given financial incentive to my contractor to get it done in that time so we shall see. 

Originally posted by @Dave Foster:@Zach AdamsThanks Dave.  

@Bryan Otteson Thanks for little boost of confidence there!

My wife and I are foster parents for developmentally disabled children and we're considering taking on a difficult 2 year old.  

He is confident he owns 4 parcels.Thanks for the guidance.Jason

On your first deal, just make sure you're confident that you won't lose money...that the furnace/HVAC/roof won't cave in immediately, that you can get the other unit rented out quickly, that you can find a competent, aggressive property manager.Also, while you're turning over that one unit, you might try to tenant proof it as much as possible...take out the garbage disposal, and someday when the carpet needs to be replaced, put in laminate floors. 

A part of me is questioning myself with "am I just being scared and lack the confidence needed to succeed or am I being smart and cautious".All questions, comments, concerns, and advice is welcomed.