If I see a pipe sticking straight up out of the ground with a cap on it, that means that there is an old oil drum buried below.

I'm a brand newbie to the world of REI and this site and I'm looking to go ahead and jump in and get my feet wet.

Exciting and fun times ahead!!! 

Of course, if you need to ask any questions, then please head on straight to the forums. 

It seems the consensus is if it's for myself, go ahead, if it's more than a member I better get a lawyer.

I know that's not a straight answer, but it does depend on your goals, price range, and risk tolerance.

Learn as much as you can, Find that first house/duplex where you can rent half out and you'll be miles ahead of the rest of us when we were 19.Travis

Will you still come out ahead?

Looking ahead, I see RE Investing as a life long thing that will grow with my increased financial stability.I've read the millionaire mind about 7 years ago which is what inspired me to get into real estate in the first place.

Congrats on the triplex as it's a nice place to fall into, and you're obviously already ahead of the rookies. :) I've also been listening for a few months and a 1-hour commute to work allows for quite a bit of listening an educating.