"Put me in Coach, I'm ready to play - today!" -John Fogerty

At some point you must decide whether to sit on the bench or get in the game. Sure, it can be intimidating at first but there's no place like being on the field(or going to the Bank). So it is with Real Estate investing. If you sit around and don't ever get in the game; well, you're guaranteed that you lose. But if you try; hey, you just might win. Real Estate investing is like playing a board game. You can win, but you must take some chances. No one ever said there is no risk involved; there is. But by learning as much as possible you can minimize your risk. Kind of like the difference between playing poker and knowing how to play and not knowing. Not knowing the game is probably going to help you part quickly with your money. Prepare yourself to get in the investing game in every way. Just like a Boxer trains for his bout, you need to train for yours -read, learn, and experience. Then again like the Boxer who gets a partner to spar with, I suggest you get a partner to start with. One who is either experienced in Real Estate investing and can walk you through the minefield or someone who has a skill you don't have, like knowledge of how to fix up property. Two heads are better than one and you will have someone to bounce things off in times of trouble. Not to mention the mathematics. Your partner may know someone in THEIR network who can provide you some answers you wouldn't have been able to find by yourself. Or, your partner may have access to the money you need to do a deal. It's part of the concept of team sports. You can rely on your partner to cover a base you can't get to. But, partnerships can be tricky, particularly in Real Estate. Always consult your Attorney before getting into one. It helps to have support at home too. Having an at home partner who agrees with your investment strategies is critical. Take time to explain to them what you are doing so they will not worry that they may end up stuck out on a limb if you have a Real Estate problem. Believe me, I've seen lots of people get out of investing simply because their at home partner wasn't comfortable with their investment ideas. Your team should work in sync. Like a good football or basketball team. Don't get the "paralysis of analysis". Remember, at some point, fight night comes and you must climb in the ring. Let's hope all the people you have in your corner help you get the great deals and make the big money!

Robin's Rule #11: "If wishes were horses, beggars would ride"

Next Blog I'll tell you how to put your team together and who should be on it