100k cash. New Investor. Looking for the right deal structure.

[Trey Read]

I am in a similar situation. I've been in what I would almost call analysis paralysis on deciding which model to pursue.  

I want to jump into a bigger deal, a deal potentially involving syndication. Is that the right direction? is 100k enough to bring to the table for a new investor into a deal? Would it make sense for someone like me to start as a passive investor in a big deal? I would like to be passive but be involved in the deal to learn the ropes; I think that would be fair to assume this wouldnt be a problem. 

I've also considered buying a couple small (2-4) properties. But that doesn't excite me. I want to be involved with big deals.

I feel like "just jump in, network and do a deal" is my mindset but I want some different perspectives from someone who's been there. 

What would you do differently starting out, knowing what you know now?

Where would you look to find investors looking for someone to partner with? 

How do you gauge an investors credibility?

Trey