How do I start as a real estate investor?

My recommendation to you is that you try to learn as much as you can about what you want to do either by reading about the subject or talking to people who have done what you want to do. There are many many different forms of real estate investing which include fix and flip, rentals, wholesaling, lease options matching, etc. and they all have their benefits and draw backs. The easiest to start with are wholesaling and lease option matching because you do not need any cash or credit. You can find plenty of information on how to do these two online. Go to your local real estate investors association, if you have one locally, and network with people. Ask questions. Many of the will be willing to help you in some way. Get to know what they need as well and how you may be able to help them. If you can, study something along the lines of business and management or marketing.