How would you start out with $30k?

[Adam Walter]

I have been wondering, I am aware of many seasoned investors are prevalent on this site and this also goes to anyone who has dived into the investing world. 

Knowing what you do now, and in your specific housing market. If you were starting from scratch again how would you put this to best use. 

What strategy would you use? What finance options? Buy and hold etc etc

For me being a foreigner (United Kingdom) my concern is my lack of accumulated credit in the United States. I am aware of the alternative lending options lease options, partnerships, bank mortgages etc I am sure their is many more. 

I am very new to the world of real estate investment so I would love to learn what you real estate vets would do?

Thanks again 

Hopefully see some of you guys in a month or two!