# The Basics - Read me First!

I asked new players and veterans alike their top 5 advice for a new player, and this is what they told me.

* **Importance of Community Engagement:**
  * Joining the [forum](https://www.simhorseracing.com/simforum/viewforum.php?f=4), [chat,](https://www.simhorseracing.com/chat.php) and Discord for learning and advice.
  * Politeness and engagement can lead to valuable tips and gifts from veteran players.
* **Patience and Realistic Expectations:**
  * Success takes years; set small goals and celebrate incremental successes.
  * Game is played in real-time; over-exercising and over-racing horses can be detrimental.
  * "Patience, however, is ESSENTIAL. If you don’t understand that to begin with, the game will become frustrating quickly" - [Scott Eilan](https://www.simhorseracing.com/simforum/viewtopic.php?t=28471)d
* **Financial Management:**
  * Don’t spend all money at once; focus on affordable, decent horses.
  * Avoid buying foals or yearlings initially; they won’t race soon and might drain resources.
  * Claiming races are a cost-effective way to build a stable.
* **Research and Learning:**
  * Study the Steward’s foal crop for insights on breeding.
  * Learn about good crosses and bloodlines.
  * Utilize [SIMperior Account](https://www.simhorseracing.com/premium.php) for additional data and insights.
* **Breeding and Horse Management:**
  * Focus on leasing mares with stakes winners in their family.
  * Build a broodmare band with solid pedigrees.
  * Start with producing commercial stallions for better ROI.
