I have read a lot of posts on Residential Assisted Living, that I am considering getting involved in, and seems like many of the posts make reference to RAL Academy and noted that there is an online version and in person version . . . wondering if any of you have taken either and if you would recommend one over the other and why.

I also had horrific PMs, particularly involved with a 48 unit apartment complex in Houston.  

It isn't having paid off properties that offers security, there are still taxes, insurance, maintenance and management involved. 

I happen to be looking for gap funders myself for a number of my house flip projects in Houston, TX and finding gap funders or any kind of private money involves a lot of networking and putting myself out there to meet potential lenders.

No agents involved.

When investing in high cash-flow markets, I always recommend working with an investor friendly agent so you're able to gain the right insight on the different areas and the risks involved.

I work on projects across multiple states and have a strong network of contractors.Regarding when to involve a contractor, if it’s someone you haven’t worked with before, I’d suggest waiting until after the inspection.

For reference, we're heavily involved in the co-living space, which is an unorthodox strategy but can perform exceptionally well with the right property and systems in place.

Are you able to get a partner involved? 

Its great that you have saved some money and have a desire but investing involves a risk of loss.