Prioritizing the steps to investing in Real Estate

Hello,

I've rented my entire life which has been a large inspiration for me to get into Real estate investing. I feel that the buy and hold strategy would best suit my style given my erratic experiences investing in equities short-term.

I've been reading the UBG in addition to several different articles and podcasts. While I'm still very much in the novice stage, I'm slowly starting to pick up on some key concepts. After assessing my current financial situation, I've come to the conclusion that I can invest roughly $10k of my own funds in a real estate deal at this time.

What I'm having a hard time understanding (and please forgive my noviceness) is which steps to take first. For example, before searching for an property (or possibly a partner), should I first secure financing? If I close on a deal, how soon thereafter should I begin searching for possible tenants?

I know these questions may seem obvious to those with experience; but I'm simply trying to gain a better understanding of how to develop a methodic approach to investing.

Thanks,