Advice for a newbie just starting out?

[Donna D.]

Hi everyone! I have some cash but only "fair" credit, which I am in the process of rebuilding. I went through a nasty divorce and custody battle which really screwed me up credit-wise and financially. I need to get on my feet again and want to invest what I can into real estate to hopefully gain financial freedom within the next 3 years. I am looking into maybe buying a small apartment building or two for some passive income, and also looking to try my hand at house flipping. I have been reading on this site and found a lot of useful advice but wondering if there might be someone out there who would be willing to sort of take me under their wing and help walk me through my first investment? Maybe a JV? Or maybe just someone willing to coach me? I have read a lot of sales pitches from REI gurus and am undecided on whether or not those are worth it or legit or what. I'm sort of leery but maybe you guys can tell me if they are worth it. If there is any other info you need from me to help formulate some advice for me, let me know! I'm eager to get going. I know my credit may create some roadblocks. I have looked around for a REI group and there is a very small one meeting in a couple weeks which I plan to attend. The only other one here in LA is a huge one that seems to be a huge sales pitch for a guru. Now sure what to think about that. Any help or advice is appreciated! So happy to have found this site!