I've begun networking with local REIA members and immersing myself in REI literature.

I don't own a property yet, but have spent the last 4 months immersing myself in all things self-storage, so I was there to get other's views on the business.

Eventually when you immerse yourself in this business and hang out with like minded people you will find your way.

I agree that immersing yourself in the neighborhood is the best way to influence the most change.

I also felt that being immersed in RE as a career could pay dividends going towards REI.  

But once I get settled I absolutely plan on joining the local REIA and immersing myself in the local scene.

One of the reasons I left my engineering career to be fully immersed in real estate was to "level up" my environment. 

But what I suddenly found was that I was getting bombarded with all kinds of Real Estate Investing training and opportunities from every direction so suddenly I felt like something was telling me to shift to RE Investing so suddenly I have been immersed in all kinds of RE training, websites that offer memberships, etc. so now I am thinking maybe I will go the REI plan first and use those profits to help fund my Broker business and there is also a phenomenal program that same company has that can automate my REI business too.  

Although, I’m still pretty young and haven’t immersed myself enough into professional life to have a massive network.

Immersing yourself into the sales end of real estate will benefit you with great relationships, access to the MLS, and overall/current knowledge of the market you're looking to invest in.