I used to invest in stocks ( still own some) Individual stocks I believe to be more speculative vs a Mutual fund or a index fund (which fools advocate) I prefer something tangible and something I have "Some" control over that is why I like real estate.I agree, they seem to assume zero learning.

My advice would be to continue doing what you're doing now, and just continue to surround yourself around individuals who are doing what you want to do and who are good at it.

Stack of papers I glance through includes appraisal, market analysis, property’s financial statements, and even borrower’s (either individual or institution) bottom line net profit after extensive list of expenses and debt services.

These are all analysing comps just put into different catagories.I do utilize zillow to find recent sales and then verify data with the individual municipality.

The GLB Act does not give consumers the right to opt out when the financial institution shares other information with its affiliates.The GLB Act provides no opt-out right in several other situations: For example, an individual cannot opt out if:a financial institution shares information with outside companies that provide essential services like data processing or servicing accounts;the disclosure is legally required;a financial institution shares customer data with outside service providers that market the financial company's products or services.""

I am currently under contract with an individual who purchased a property, via Florida Tax Deed Sale, less than three months ago.I have looked up the county records and he did actually purchase it from the county.

I really enjoy excel.My goal on BP is to network and find like-minded individuals.

In our area it usually takes a well qualified individual about 45 days to get approved for a mortgage.

SSN is for an individual.

Rich,I found this on the IRS site http://www.irs.gov/Individuals/What-is-Earned-Income%3F;In this link the IRS clearly says that interest is not considered "Earned Income"Now understand I am neither a tax attorney or accountant however, If I was in your situation my expectation would be that I could collect this income from holding the mortgage without reducing my SS benefits.Probably your best bet though would be to contact a tax accountant or tax attorney (or both) to be certain.