There are many sources on bigger pockets where you can find free information and also members posting results they have had using different methods.

The rule is that your purchase price should be allocated between land and building in the same ratio as the value of each component bears to the value of the property as a whole.So let's say the property is worth $100,000 with $60,000 of the value attributable to land and $40,000 attributable to building (you can use any reasonable method to determine this; one easy way used by many is the assessor's split, though there are other methods that could yield a better answer for you).You buy the property  at a huge discount for $10,000

Others entry points could be the BRRRR method, or even buying a house and simply renting rooms to get started as a landlord.

I would think house hacking a duplex would be a good first step.

Everyone wants to be a real estate investor, but getting your finances right is step #1.  

And you watch how that person, who you tried to help, turns into a completely different person and tries to do you wrong.This is why you want to only rent to good credit renters as you have recourse thru Small Claims Court and depending how much they tear up and past due rent they rack up, step it up into the higher courts and go after them for what they owe! 

To tag people simple type the “@“ sign and then their name.I also wanted to say that getting your REI license is a good step but just be aware that starting out is usually very slow.

Welcome to this beautiful business of investing,  before doing your first step,  find out what you are looking for, your exit strategy,  your goals,  read some good books,  join your local REIA, find a Mentor.   

This is the first step to making an offer. 

The IRS doesn't seem to care which method you choose but it must be reasonable and consistent.