I like NC because of lower taxes and they are having some good job growth specifically in Raleigh and Charlotte.

Your tudor style four-unit on the quiet cul-de-sac isn't going to drink on the job, steal toilet paper and embezzle quarters from the washing machines...

I fear the financial stress will be great without having anymore additional income than my 8-5 job.

You cannot always count on bank employees sitting behind cubicles, snoozing, and not doing their jobs.

@Christopher WestSounds like your day job eats a lot of your time; I am in the same boat. 

One of the main reasons why I want to do real estate is because after losing my job last because to a merger, I wanted to have another way to provide for my family and to reach financial independence one day.My goal is to become a buy and hold investor, buying duplexes and multi-families in my area and possibly out of state. 

I also deliver the printer's marketing material along with my letters, so I get a discount on the print jobs.

My question is this: how old do I have to be to start investing (assuming I have a good paying job?)

What I suggest is getting a job for a few years that allows you to save some money and improve your credit.

Hello all,I'm new to these forums, I have followed them occasionally for years whenever I had time but never actively posted.