New here, new career path, guidance welcome!

[Ashley Leicht]

Hello, I'm Ashley. I recently moved to Raleigh, NC to start my life over. I've been trying to figure out what I want to do as a career and have been looking into owning real estate. I don't know if I'm posting in the right section so forgive me if so.

I was first leaning towards buying/renovating/running a bed and breakfast at the beach, but I also love the idea of buying an old motel and turning it into a sort of boutique/upscale motel.

I guess my question is, what should my plan look like to accomplish this? Should I be going to school for hospitality management? I have no prior experience besides managing a hair salon long ago. It all seems very intimidating, especially the financing portion. I want to be well educated before diving in, but also don't want to take unnecessary schooling and time when I should maybe just find a mentor and investor. I would love some guidance

I don't know where to start but whenever I think about investing and owning real estate and making it my own, I get super excited,  so I think I'm in the right place. I just would love some guidance as to where I should start to reach my goals! 

[Kathie Russell]

  Hi and welcome!    you don't need hospitality school, but you do need to know how to run your numbers.  The best place to start is by joining your local REIA.  You will find education, networking, lenders, people who will partner with you, people who will help you, and people who can point you to the education you do need.  NCREIA in Raleigh would be a great start.  The next main meeting is Feb. 21 and you can print a free guest pass at www.ncreia.com.