Hi, my name is Brian Szucs and I am finally taking the plunge into real estate investing. But first what I am currently doing. I am a software engineer and have been for the past 17 years. I make what other consider "good money" but I just do not like working, never did. Let me be specific, I do not like working for someone else on their terms, no, actually I don't like the entire idea that I HAVE to work. I originally started my self improvement venture 17 years ago when I first entered the software/IT industry with How to Win Friends and Influence People. From there it was on, I was addicted, I listened to all of Tony Robbins courses, Think and Grow Rich, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People etc... but it wasn't until I finally read Rich Dad, Poor Dad in which I questioned the whole "work" thing. I then read or listened to all of Robert Kiyosaki's books/CD's as well as purchased Cash Flow, joined my local investment club, went to meetings and was primed and ready back in 2003 but was too fearful to make a move. I listened but still didn't take action. I had gotten my real estate license, attended even more seminars, such as Dave Lindahl's Apartment House Riches, (Which is one strategy I am very interested in) had great credit and even cash on hand but was too fearful of making a huge mistake. I also made too big of goals that started out of my comfort zone. I think I did this because of Tony Robbins saying shoot for the stars. I've done a lot of maturing since then and realize I should have just started as small as I could. And now, I have a perfect role model that I know. I watched a good friend go from struggling to being 100% financially free and he is my inspiration. I know this market may not be the same as then but I have learned, and continue to learn, that there is money to be made and the most buck for your time is in real estate. Commercial is my end goal but I am ready to start small, slow and calculated. I was too impatient before. This time I am going to be patient and I have a 5 year plan instead of my famous 3 month plan. I understand the rule, you get out what you put in and I am all in.