Beginner and looking for advice

[William Lockwood]

I am William Lockwood.  I am a 26-year military veteran.  I retired from active service in 2015 and have been working as a maintenance professional in heavy industry since then.  I have 6 children ranging from 13 years old to 26 years old. in 2023 I took a different job, located in Ocala Florida.  That position didn't work out and I found myself without an income for the first time in my adult life.  I live in Beverly Hills, FL.  It is located in Citrus County, north of Tampa.  I intend on purchasing my first investment property this year.  I had always been interested and excited to become a real estate investor and had a little taste of it when I moved from Virginia to Illinois, upon retiring from the military.  I rented my home out in Virginia since I would have to take a loss on the property if I sold it then.  We rented the house out for almost 5 years and made about $150.00/mo. after costs.  We then sold the property and moved on.  I didn't realize how much of a mistake that was at that time.  Now I find myself in a position to be able to do this again and I am more confident in my ability to "make this work".  I Don't want to just wing it so I would like to learn from all of you and your experience so I don't make any bone head mistakes.  I intend on funding my business with a ROBS.  If anyone has experience with this I would appreciate your input.  Thank you in advance for your knowledge and guidance.