But my target areas are probably a little less polished than yours, and I'm looking for areas with room (and the expectation) to improve in a couple of years. 

They flip the shingle 180 degrees and then nail it down.

You really hit the nail on the head there.

I am very interested in investing in real estate, especially in Indiana and with Indiana companies.....but I must confess that I would not know much about putting a hammer to a nail or what the best way for profiting from my investment (like selling it or renting it).

Smart people adjust their life style, clear their debt, polish their credit scores and financially position them selves for success by mastering personal money management.Investing in real estate should not be used as a path to clear debt, you need money to be a investor.

Miller Seems like RE dug it’s nails in and never let go.

If you're already eyeing a property, nail down the details of that property (deep financials, market opportunity, rental comps, sale comps if you're looking to sell in a few years).

Don't hire someone just because they happen to be standing in front of you claiming to be able to do what you need.If this guy accidentally shoots a nail through his hand, or falls off a ladder, what do you think is going to happen? 

You hit the nail right on the head, you have been living with roommates, so keep it up and collect even more rent.

@Nick B. pretty much nailed it.