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Lyle Wall, the “IRA Guy” and owner of http://www.theiraman.com, received the 2008 Industry Achievement Award at this past October’s NoteWorthy Subscriber’s Convention in Las Vegas.  In this article he answers some questions about investing.

Questioner: What are your goals and what is in your investment pipeline for this year?

The IRA Man: I have never believed in or been very aggressive setting goals for the coming year. Since I have been in the real estate investment arena for 33 years, I think in terms of finding opportunities, then developing them accordingly. I never have preconceived thinking to do a certain number of deals per week, per month, or per year. I think it is dangerous to contemplate in terms of definite dollar amounts I need to invest over a given timeframe. As for my investment pipeline, we normally have two to four deals in the works at any given moment. Presently, we are looking at a four-lot subdivision that we purchased out of foreclosure, and that will be enough of a challenge for us this year. My goals would probably be considered very simple by many standards. I will be reading books, investment newsletters, and attending investment classes this coming year. I will be thinking, continuing to grow, building my knowledge base, and changing my life in a positive manner during this next year. I will continue to invest in myself, expecting investment returns accordingly, and hopefully getting better each day in enjoying life as it unfolds for Gloria and me.

Questioner: I know you have been on a continuous reading program for years. What have you read lately that you would suggest for me?

The IRA Man: Yes, I do turn off my laptop and read in the evening time to relax and slow myself down. Oftentimes I find myself re-reading books I have previously enjoyed. Presently, I am re-reading all three of Lonnie Scruggs’ books. He writes great horse sense concerning your “dollar employees ” that work when you are sleeping, never taking a day off. I really respect and like Lonnie Scruggs. So will you, if you get the opportunity to meet Lonnie and his wife Joanne. His website is simply his name. I’ve also recently read “Where Have the Leaders Gone?” by Lee Iacocca. (He really does a number on our federal policy-makers); “The Age of Abundance” by Brink Lindsey; “The Dip” by Seth Godin; (A book about choices and why you make them); “The World Is Flat” by Thomas L. Friedman; and “It Ain’t All About the Cooking” by Paula Deen. (It would be hard to trump the successful story that she has to tell.)

If you are a voracious reader and would like to have Lyle’s list of 50 suggested books, e-mail by going to http://www.theiraman.com/page2/page2.php and he will send it to you.