Having done that I am now preparing my first mailing for motivated sellers.I wouldn't discourage you from door knocking, I think it can be a valuable learning experience, however I would have to agree with @Lynette Braun that "touching" the customer with mailings or social media prior to meeting with them is more in line with your long term success in this business.  

As @Brandon Turner wisely advises, find your "unfair advantages" and use those to guide your investing strategy.  

It's the most valuable first step

I used to be a Real Estate Agent in SC some years back and is the author of The Single Parent Guide to Homeownership.

We also include a Settlement Charges Guide (such as that from the Landlord Protection Agency), which we adjust to match typical prices in our area.

Be sure to check out “Learn” for all kinds of useful resources and free how to guides.

If you haven't had a chance to review it yet, check out the BP beginner's guide to make sure you're aware of all your investing options.https://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingRegarding wholesaling or any of the other investing strategies, a good place to begin is by deciding what market (zip codes, neighborhoods, etc) you want to invest in and then learning the numbers for that market.

Be sure to check out “Learn” for all kinds of useful resources and free how to guides.

I look forward to building valuable business relationships. 

Hey folks,I have been re-reading The Essential Guide for Landlords by Karen Rittenhouse.