After identifying properties and marketing through direct mail, what is your next step to purchase?

About MeI initially started out as a civil engineering major and interned for a 100-person engineering firm in Boston in their plumbing and fire protection department but ultimately went on to pursue a degree in finance.

We do not get copies of the steps along the way (i.e. when a department sends the plans back to the architect for changes, etc). 

Debt first (assuming this is high interest or credit card debt) is the best first step as it is a high yield return on your money that is basically guaranteed after that you should decide how you would like to invest and learn to analyze properties, you also want to make sure you have financing in place before you start looking seriously just in case you want to put in an offer on something.

I had thought about looking into STR around me, but I'm a little risk adverse so I haven't pursued anything yet.

I would love to sit and chat about the market here bounce somethings off of you and possibly bring some valued added  experience to your team before fully stepping out on my own. 

I can relate to your goal of leaving the "rat race" and pursuing your passion for RE Investing.

Sounds like you already have a lender...so that is the first step. 

There is no need at this point to cause yourself my stress...just sen the non-renewal notice and get ready for the next step of turning the property. 

Step by step instructions can be found here.http://dat.maryland.gov/realproperty/Pages/Ground-Rent.aspx