The only problem is it takes a different set of skills than what we're used to.

Find a "Mentor" who truly knows the market, and clone the skills and capabilities they have.

It is a learned skill but also some people will just never feel comfortable with it but possess their own strengths.     

I suggest you concentrate on paying off your student loans while honing your real estate skills. 

I would link it, but that's beyond my skill level.

I think interviewing is a lost art in this business. 

I realize that I'm far more cynical than your average person, but it helps me get by in business :)With that being said, there could be upside if what he said was true and you have the knowledge, experience, financial backing, and skills to turn around commercial properties.

Eventually, I would like to build something where disadvantaged kids in lower income neighborhoods have a safe place to play and study and develop their skills. 

Dont have much money but I do have skills and resources. 

I have been taking notes and my skills are I believe increasing because of all of you.The book sugestion is great and I will down load the reading material today to read.Thanks everyone