While the market can go up or down in either investment, Real Estate is the only one of the two that offers income opportunities through rental income, that stocks don't, and can often help ride out the storm of market fluxes.Also, the Greater Phoenix market (that includes Scottsdale) historically nets 65K+ Californians per year. 

Especially in a market where 95% of the buyers, and 99% of the highest offers come from owner occupants.

I'd offer to treat, but then we have to go to Chipotle - lol.

Maybe they are offering financing because no traditional lender will lend on the building. 

Was just about ready to pull the trigger on one of the many courses that are offered out there, particularly Pace Morby’s, but after reading several posts full of reactions to the question “should I join and pay for a course?”

No need to go through all that work, expense and permits for gas (unless the utility or state is offering a grant). 

I am trying to brainstorm ways to partner locally with someone in or around Indianapolis, to offer "boots on the ground" as this is what I do and where my passion is already.

Would appreciate advice and even offers for partnership in this project maybe from someone experienced.

Would love to add a mentor to guide us through the first deal, we can offer all of the sweat equity and our network that will help fundraise the deal! 

The usual way, but not the right way, to try to buy a rental is by finding a property on the MLS, where agents congregate, make an offer and then try to get financing to buy the property.