So, get a conventional, more formal and acceptable education in the industry.

The investment into education and knowledge in general is priceless and generally less expensive then your first potential mistake without having it to begin with.Second step in the knowledge process is, after the foundation knowledge is set and you understand the acronyms in the industry, street talk, construction lingo, valuations, exit strategies...then you can add to your tool-belt some items that may facilitate a further analysis like spreadsheets, apps, etc.Real Estate Investing is a TEAM Sport, and to try to understand everything on your own to the point that you feel comfortable to then act is an unreasonable expectation.Surround yourself with a strong Team, an experienced Mentor local to you, have that foundation education completed, put that tool-belt together and then act on a sound opportunity.NOTE: Wholesaling gives you an opportunity to practice what you learn, gives you an opportunity to vet your Team and affords you the opportunity to valuate the property without risk to start with.

I'm a 11 year commercial real estate broker by trade and my practice focuses on Office and Industrial property primarily in Orange County & Los Angeles County.

I look forward to taking part in conversations not only about crowdfunding, but also about broader issues affecting the real estate industry.  

I'm just starting my real estate investing adventure and my first step (other than signing up for BP and listening to podcasts) is to meet people in the industry for informational interviews.  

Good Evening Bigger Pockets, I have been looking to get out of the fitness industry and into the real estate industry for about a year now.  

Im very new to this industry I have 0 experience but willing to learn , Im wondering whats the direction I should go to start building a proper foundation for the forthcoming  of this business seminars, programs, books , networking etc. ?

I see and use Forums like this, and others, as an opportunity to collaborate with and expand upon a pre-existing formal knowledge of the Industry or strategy...not as a starting point into an industry.

I notice that the farther you branch out you run into smaller towns that don't have as much industry, stable jobs, etc.. meaning the rental market also is even lower than where I am at, therefore rendering the same situation in ratio. 

@Ben Leybovich   funny Ben ... but look at the direct marketing piece's that go out those are dumbed down and made to look like some joe blow sent them..So punctuation and grammar may be important in some business environments.. buying real estate especially new folks trying to  wholesale or buy some buy and holds it certainly is not..if it was not for spell check you would be ringing me up as a poor business man with no hope in the industry !!