My question is would it be beneficial for me to work toward getting a general contractors license to help the team with licensed bids that are fair and have this done in house?

Ideally we would get an attorney to draft up the specifics of our arrangement but things that we are unclear about include things like, who should take out the mortgage (both names v.s. the one who can get the better offer), what documentation is essential i.e. equality/partnership agreement.

Building lasting relationships is beneficial in the long run, for business and friendship. 

Not just text on a document.

When you go to get your primary they will find those homes are connected to you and asked for their documents.

Word documents work but when are you doing an long application, they are always space constrained and can’t have conditional entries. 

I am looking to work/meet with local investor, real estate agent or anybody to provide me with guidance or form a mutually beneficial arrangement .

Here are 3 links from va.gov directly:https://www.benefits.va.gov/HOMELOANS/documents/circulars/26_19_30.pdf?

It sort of seems you're past the point where a lawyer would've been beneficial unless your intent is to sue each other.

Request supporting documents to prove the tenants pay and pay on time.3.)