Basic Investing

Start studying.  Something like Real Estate Investment for Dummies is a good book to begin with.  You can also learn a great deal of basic material if you take the course that is required of would-be real estate salespersons in your state.

Next, line up your own real estate lawyer, real estate broker, and CPA.  You're going to need professional help from the start, before you make your first purchase.  The broker helps you find suitable property, the accountant shows you how to analyze whether the investment will pay, and the lawyer makes sure your interests are protected before you sign any contracts.