I know that when I first starting investing in RE my main objective was and still is to make passive income so that I can quit the rat race and live life the way its meant to be lived.  

Make sure to listen to all the BP podcasts, read the articles on the main blog and be active in these forums to learn a ton very quickly about any topic in real estate you want to know more about.This is also a great place to meet people that can be assets to your business.

@Bryan Hancock  This is the exact main point I was trying to make with my post.  

My main reasons for it is MLS access, networking with more people, and better understanding of the different markets.

Mainly our deals consist of short sales, and sometimes a rare deal on the MLS.

I feel like I can analyze a deal as well, but my main questions are about markets, tenants, and adding value to a property.I agree 100% with your last statement, but would like to add to it....You don't know what you don't know, until you finally know you didn't know it!

Hi, will the investors familiar with the twin city market be able to recommend an agent that mainly works and is knowledgeable in investment properties. 

The main differences being that hard money comes from an institution as opposed to a private individual. 

The main problem I see is that you're getting no equity spread for taking on the rehab, only risk.

I mainly wanted to hear other people's first investment stories so I could get some inspiration. :) This site and the forums have taught me a lot already but I have some more I need to learn!