Cavin,

Granted, their exists a small number of real estate investors who happen to find themselves at the right place at the right time or are extraordinarily lucky,  real estate is a business and one of many forms of investment.  Typically, the higher degree of risk or complexity, the greater the chance for higher returns. 

Many of the well-studied, seasoned real estate investors are rarely concerned of the risk as they are confident in the numbers, the structure and systems, the area market and relationships with lenders, partners, etc.   They make qualified and well studied decisions.

There are undoubtedly investors who earned money in real estate without an education, although I assure you that their are far more successful investors who have first studied the business.

My advice is to dive head first into education, otherwise you'll always be looking to someone else to manage your business for you -- and keep in mind they are in business as well...  Whether it's college, real estate schools, seminars, or simply through reading, educate yourself about all aspects of real estate, finance, and construction/structures first.

Finally, likely the first thing a lender or partner is going to want to see is your credit score as this say's everything about your ability or inability to manage your personal finances.  If you have a med-low credit score, focus on fixing it.

Best of Luck,

Chuck