So I had an idea of learning financial modeling, and offering to analyze deals for a small fee ($20 bucks or so).

Although, I have to thank him, because I see the potential of real estate investment being my knight-in-shining-armor bringing me to my goal of Financial Independence in the next five years. 

Second, you are lacking quite a bit in your financial description of the property. 

I think everyone's situation is different, and each person's journey in discovering the kind of investor they want to be can be discovered by trial & error, or education through partnering with someone or learning through the books, podcasts or forums available to you. 

Is that ideal or should I put myself in a better spot financially before making any moves?

My name is Chris, i'm new to the Bigger Pockets community and just getting started in my education of real estate.

This community is such a supportive resource, and the opportunities for education are rich. 

@Nick Barker welcome, mnreia is cheap and has some good education nights, we also mnrec is also good.

No matter which niche you chose, you have to start with educating yourself first prior to investing! 

Our goal is to be financially free within 3 - 5 years, allowing us to work on this endeavor full time.I want to thank everyone who has contributed to the site as it has been an amazing help and I look forward to staying engaged on the forums to pay that back as best I can starting with this way too past due introduction.My wife and I are focusing on buy and hold rentals and flips in the Chicagoland / Central Illinois areas.