How and where to kick start my real estate network?

[Julia Tingle]

I have discovered within the last year of my undergrad experience this idea of financial freedom (and feeling very grateful I did so early!). Graduating with an architecture degree, I love real estate but have very minimal finance-based education other than Rich Dad Poor Dad and just a couple other personal finance/ real estate investment books and podcasts. Ideally I'd love to buy my first property or do a house hack within the next two years, but have some student debt to pay off first (within the next 6 months) and need to hear what advice real people have for how to get out of analysis paralysis and START! Any and all advice welcome, especially from any neighbors in the DMV!

[Evan Polaski]

@Julia Tingle, I agree with Joseph, there is no single thing you can do to get out of analysis paralysis besides just trusting your gut and vision, and going for it.  

Set your budget, have preapproval ready (in most major markets there is a severe under supply of listed properties), and start touring properties.  You will find your best deals in the hoarder's houses and fixer uppers.  Ideally, if you can get a friend with construction/rehab experience to go on tours with you it will help you a lot. Things to look for, general costs to fix items, etc.