Need to find a mentor or partner....

[Daniel Amis]

I'm looking to get involved in REI (residential properties specifically). I don't qualify for an FHA loan at this point because I have below average credit- and I only have a part time job. I'm currently saving money- and figure in a few months I'll have enough to help make a down payment on a property.

I know that I need a partner, a mentor, and a bit of luck to acquire my first deal. But I don't know how to go about everything. I read tons of books on RE- and I know what I want to do. I have the drive and determination to succeed- and can contribute a good amount of "sweat equity".

My question is where can I find someone, in the NY area, that has experience, that's willing to mentor or partner up with me?