Eye on the Prize - Newbie Real Estate Investor

[Cora Durham]

Good Afternoon BP! I would like to inquire with all of you wonderful gurus regarding investing in my own real estate investment property. I would first like to commend you all for taking your first leap and never looking back, going full steam ahead in your dreams of creating passive income. I know you greatly appreciate all who has helped with advice and action every step of the way.

I am a full-time mom with a full-time job as well as going to school full-time online.... I commute 2 hours a day round-trip, start cooking, cleaning and homework help as soon as my bag hits the floor when I get home. I don't think I actually take a seat to relax for a full two hours once I get home. But please don't view this as complaining, the love for my family and the drive to provide the best is what gives me the fuel to do what I do. My dream is to be able to spend more time with them and not depend on an earned paycheck to provide their needs.

Here's my story: I would like to begin investing in the SF Bay Area. I currently own my own home and have $20k in my 401k to start with my investing. I'm sure all deals aren't good deals so what is the steps to separate the good from the bad? My goal is to also hire a good property management company to manage my properties. Any advice or assistance provided would be most helpful.

Warmest Regards,
~Cora