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!"

Stay active on the site & you'll accomplish all the goals you mentioned and more.Here is where you can learn more about getting started: http://www.biggerpockets.com/starthereConnect with other BP members: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts for topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsMaybe one day we'll get the opportunity to meet at a local REIA.

Bigger Pockets has various: ebooks, blogs, forums, podcasts, webinars, colleagues, keyword alerts, an awards system, a learn section, informative people in many fields of real estate, and more.Consider spending 30 minutes for 30 consecutive days on Bigger Pockets.

Listen to the podcast and start setting up keyword alerts.  

For example, you set up key word alerts. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

Combine your business experience with Bigger Pockets various resources: ebooks, blogs, forums, podcasts, webinars, colleagues, keyword alerts, an awards system, a learn section, informative people in many fields of real estate, and more.Consider spending 30 minutes for 30 consecutive days on Bigger Pockets.

Leverage in general is to 'make use of'/'Take advantage of' and in the context of investing, a phrase you might hear is  "leverage OPM" - means you're leveraging Other People's Money (OPM). i.e: You're taking advantage of funds that are not your own, to work for you.

Also, setting up keyword alerts for your area is a great way to stay in the loop for what's going on locally and it will help you meet other folks from your area.Best of luck!

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 SuccessBefore your 1st purchase, please ensure you visit the below link for some tips. http://www.realestate.com/advice/buying-your-first-investment-property/ eBookhttp://www.biggerpockets.com/files/user/brandonatbp/file/real-estate-rewind-a-biggerpockets- community-book Blog http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/02/09/how-to-start-investing-real-estate-young/ Lastly, don't forget the podcasts, webinars, #askbp podcast and the blogs.

Don't miss The BiggerPockets Podcast - they are great for learning how others are finding success.Oh - and be sure to set up some Keyword Alerts- especially for "Los Angeles" so you'll be notified when people mention it here in the forums.Thanks again for introducing yourself!