Try that in the stock market.Finally, you have a lot more control with real estate as compared to trading stocks (I'm not talking mutual funds).

This is an opportunity for you to put your negotiating skills to a test.

It really depends on your actual skill level, and what the alternative use of your time is.

Do you have any special skills that could be applied to a rehab project (trade skills or prior experience helping family fix up a property)?

Lets trade email contact details.

I'm in the Metro Orlando area (Osceola, Seminole, Orange, Brevard, Volusia counties) and I was told the best strategy for me (excellent credit, no home, about $5K in cash) was to trade-up given the market here in Central Florida.

However, i have to learn the trade and start networking to do so...again this seems to be a great site to do so.

The biggest issue is when they are good at one skill but not at the full process from start to finish.

Even if you are just starting out there are things you might have done in the past which you can build on.Do you have any trade skills (licensed plumber, etc)?

Improving your math skills if they are not great is another key skill.Part-time work: Property management, construction, sales in a hardware store, almost any sales job where you are dealing with the public on a regular basis, working as a support person for a real estate agent who is very active (marketing, web support, etc), admin work for a mortgage broker.