Newbie from Freehold, NJ

[Brian G.]

Hi, my name is Brian + I'm 24. I have read a little bit on real estate + having been searching through this and some other sites on the internet, I would rate my current real estate knowledge as very elementary. I live in Freehold, NJ, and am self employed in the ATM business. I am interested in learning about/investing in apartments buildings + strip malls, I am more drawn towards commericial real estate as opposed to residential. I am willing to work hard and learn all that I can, and I would like to put that work into a lucrative area of the business. I am most attracted to the cash flow aspect of real estate, which is why I'm leaning towards commercial. I am open-minded and would love to hear from people already investing in commercial real estate, especially people from NJ.

I was wondering if it's possible for a beginner to put together a deal in the commercial arena without putting up any of their own personal money? I think it's "possible", but has anyone on here actually done it? The original question assumes that this "beginner" has already educated themselves, understands the business, has found a winner of a first deal, but doesn't have the personal cash for the required down payment.

Thanks for all responses.

Brian