Have you ever been to one and do you have any advice for a newbie(what to prepare, bring...)?

This city is like no other and until you spend time with her (real time, not just a vacation visit here and there) there is nothing I can say to prepare you.

Also be prepared for the possibility that the agent will tell you things you might not want to hear, such as you have zero chance of acquiring a particular property.

If you are not financially prepared it can bankrupt you.  

So, when you see the guru bandits ride into town, prepare to defend yourself and others who can't defend themselves!

@Jerry WeberWelcome to the vibrant BP community, where you will find like minded individuals committed to REI and also helping others succeed.Your time on this social media site will be well spent.You have taken the 1st step by announcing your readiness and commitment to embark on a REI career.Whether you pursue, wholesale, flips or buy and hold it's up to you to decide.Below, are some links for three of the most popular niches from which your can review and pick one or all.My take on your preparation to embark on REI is that you simultaneously educate yourself and work on getting your debts down to size.

_r=0http://www.katzmatz.net/lawyer/2013/04/01/Residential-Real-Estate/Apartment-Combinations-and-Renovations-%E2%80%93-Be-Prepared-!

I would like to flip homes, and eventually have a handful of free and clear, buy and holds that generate $1000-1500/mo each.In 2001 I ordered a Real Estate Agent course online that was going to prepare me for the state test but at that time in my life I wasn't as dedicated as I should have been, so I never finished the course work.

As well the best study guides/booklets that can also help prepare me for the exams.

But, you better be prepared to do a LOT of work to screen these "investors," screen their deals and then oversee their projects to ensure that your investments are protected.Like I said earlier in the thread, your better bet is to just add more deals to your own pipeline if access to deals isn't a problem for you.