At some point in time they will probably have to interact with a contractor, and knowing whether they are receiving good value for their money or being ripped off would be a valuable skill.Great topic and I'm sure others will chime in to expand the curriculum.Erik

I'm comfortable with standard home loans and would prefer to go that route as our portfolio expands, but am finding it to be more and more difficult.Thanks again for the advice.

We are working on our third rental addition.The goal of joining BiggerPockets is to expand the footprints of my personal holdings and that of the partnership with other rental acquisitions via education, community involvement and your guidance.I accidentally found BiggerPockets recently while searching for a real estate book on Amazon and was really impressed with the site's content, layout, ease of use and its genuine contribution to the real estate community without exhorbitant fees.I look forward to increasing my knowledge with the webinars, podcasts, #askbp, forum engagements and other exchanges.By the way, I challenged myself to listen to at least two podcasts daily starting with #001, until I am at the current count. 

I have actively been buying and selling real estate up to this point but looking to expand my opportunities on doing more deals. 

I have a closing attorney, I've began a relationship with a realtor that is extremely helpful with advice, and a list of 23 buyers that I'm still looking to expand.

After five leads which only one panned out, I am looking to expand my horizons.

Also, I am looking to expand my rehabbing business into this area and be doing 2-4 projects at a time in the Sacramento region in the near coming future.  

I have been blessed with some solid family connections in these areas, but I am open to expanding and enhancing my network.

It doesn't matter if you are young or old, totally new or need to build upon your experience.Yes, you have just announced a commitment to the thousands in this community aboutyour seriousness regarding REI and have taken this bold step to affirm it.Your time on this site and with the BiggerPockets community will be well spent and can be financially rewarding if you so desire.You are here at the Forum, but, should raise your mouse to the top and explore the otherheadings displayed.Don't get overwhelmed by the massive amount of data archived on this site.Simply, bone up on the areas that you need to expand knowledge in such as, Forums,Marketplace, Learn, Network, Analyze, Resources.Feast on the Podcasts, #askbp Podcasts, blogs, webinars and the myriad of bookrecommendations.Also, you can review the quick links below to help solidify your grip on this site. http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthereSetting up Keyword Alerts How to Use @Mentions on BiggerPockets 25 Tips for Real Estate SuccessAfter becoming more knowledgeable and confident because of my above suggestions,take action to snag your first real estate investment deal if new or add to yourexisting holdings if you have prior experience.

Being in multiple markets is also a good way to hedge against local or regional economic shifts.Explore your network - and perhaps expand it - that network will point you towards what investments, projects, etc. provide you with the best chances of success.