No need for a clunky online portal when they can handle everything easily via text.I completely agree that market positioning will be key.

It's probable the agent also has buyers, but so does almost every agent.The problem is conflict of interest if the same person is agent for you and your buyer. 

That said, I also have a family depending on me, so I need to be smart about how I get started and manage risk along the way.I’m open to all types of connections — whether that’s silent investors looking to back local deals, or experienced investors/mentors who need a boots-on-the-ground partner to help source properties, run comps, visit sites, manage contractors, or handle local coordination.

@Damon M.You will need an attorney to draft your operating agreement stating how profits are handled, how losses are allocated, and who is responsible for what. 

This will be an owner-occupied loan so you want to make sure you are compliant with the regulations that govern these (the RMLO service will handle this). 

I've been researching, but I'm more of a person who prefers speaking directly to someone knowledgeable.

I wanted to share a piece of advice that I've found incredibly helpful in managing the demands of this business: avoid giving out your personal cell phone number to owners or tenants, especially tenants.I highly recommend setting up a separate business line, like through a service such as Ring Central.

Quote from @Andrew Steffens: This is highly personal, and highly customizable. 

Create a Joint Venture Agreement that specifies the following: Recitals; Rights, Duties, and Responsibilities of each person/ entity entering into the agreement (Who will pay for what to include, but not limited to any down payment, holding costs such as Property Insurance Premiums, Utilities, HOA Fees if any, Rehab Materials, Contractor Labor, Loan Payments, etc.).

I’ve personally never faced an invoice over $10k (massive turnover expense plus took the opportunity to replace all appliance and install grainier to raise rents.)