I spent most of the year reading on here and listening to the blogs, but I was still anxious. 

Watch the blogs and post, learn through discussions.  

Here's a real great article on the BiggerPockets Blog that talks about bigger not always being better when it comes to real estate.

Here is a list of lender that I've put together over the years, you can contact them directly to learn about the requirements each of them has: https://www.biggerpockets.com/blogs/2810/50272-lis...Hope this is helpful.

When you write a check, it can be immediately cashed, regardless of the date on it (exceptions can include payroll checks).Cite: https://www.quickenloans.com/blog/postdate-checks

Thanks so much, I literally am on this site daily, just reading all of your comments, blogs, and responses... 

I have listed some helpful recommendations for you:Meet BiggerPockets member in your area:http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you:http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide:http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts:http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/Forum and Blog rules: https://www.biggerpockets.com/rulesIf you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person.

I have listed some helpful recommendations for you: Meet BiggerPockets member in your area:http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you:http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts Read Beginner’s Guide:http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing Check out BP Podcasts:http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/ Forum and Blog rules: https://www.biggerpockets.com/rules If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person.

I laugh when I read all the posts and articles talking about how horrible w2 income is, blog. 

I turned in one guy that has properties all over his web page stating to call them for showing appointments.