BiggerPockets

I've been hearing a lot of beginners say that they are looking for a mentor, and I've also been hearing a lot of experienced investors say that a mentor is the best way to go.

But I was wondering, how many of you all started out in real estate on your own? Being it by reading books, attending seminars, or just looking through real estate forums and message boards.

If you are self taught, would you consider yourself successful? Was it a tough road? Would you tell others not to take your route and find a mentor?

If you can get a mentor, or at least talk with a successful investor in your area and pick their brain over coffee-do it.

Having someone to lean on is going to be important in the beginning and even as you gain experience (each day will be a new lesson).

Going it alone is fine, but it is going to be a long battle (Depending on your resources and experience level).

If you have no money (or little money) no credit- etc. you will want someone who can help you along the way (start birddoging)...

Anyway-why blaze a trail when you can walk down a worn path.

And FYI I did not have a mentor and started with very little money-bad credit and it took a long, long time to get rolling. It can be done- but how much do you want to put yourself through?