Keep reading and listening here and you will gain the confidence to move forward.

You have a clear strategy in that you have educated yourself and now feel confident to take action.Good luck and best wishes with your REI activities.REI can be very daunting , however, this site thrives on interactions and as such we encourage two way exchanges and look forward to educational and thought provoking ideas relevant to REI.

It's hard for me to imagine that six more months of saving, networking, and learning wouldn't put you in an even better position to really be able to confidently get into a deal.  

Good LuckLarry Foster

Thanks for that vote of confidence, Ashley.You're the second person to suggest a property management company and I'm wondering why you feel I should use one over handling things myself.

I am a newbie to real estate investing, and like others, have come to this forum to reach out, meet new people, learn the business, and gain confidence to take the first step in real estate investing.  

At least the other 5 I can confidently say I am happy with the purchases and management.

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 about your 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/starthere http://www.biggerpockets.com/ubg http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet Setting 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 your existing holdings if you have prior experience.Don't get caught up in analysis paralysis.You must immerse yourself in the RE marketplace locally in your neighborhood or afar if the situation warrants it.Take calculated risks if needed and you shall be rewarded!"

@Dave Foster How does one go about setting an exchange like that up? 

If dealing with a more aggressive personality, take the approach of the business owner that is confident enough to handle any situation.I suggest that you take a look into a course on personality profiling such as the color method, and get your employees understanding the concept as well.