I think he's reasoning is sound but as as newbie investor I am having difficulty buying a multifamily due to the larger down payment and loan required, therefore I'm refocused on research on SFH. 

But there are many ways to skin that cat - for example you can partner with someone who has strong income and will be your silent partner.

Even most hard money lenders are going to want you to have some skin in the game.

Are there any other ways to skin this cat???

If so, what difficulties have you run into?  

These realtor-investors have skin in the game and, therefore, are able to provide a wealth of knowledge to investors of all levels.As for questions to ask your realtor, these will vary based on the type of ownership (owner occupied, foreclosure, etc.) and the type of property.

There are also administrative expenses in teaching and of course my time, plus people are more dedicated if they have "skin in the game" (money on the table.)At the end, it is a personal choice.

Due to the difficulty of finding decent deals in Austin, my wife and I decided to look for a property in Elgin, TX.

Hard money lenders are requiring more "skin in the game" and charging 3-5 points at closing along with 8-15% APR! 

It's a 6.9% return for 6 months, no bad, but the other party having no skin in the game mean you need an outsized return as well as being on the hook for unknown expenses.