There is nothing more annoying that paying $1200 just to hear a sales pitch and be told that the only thing that will allow you to be successful is to sink a ton of cash into the advanced training. 

My next question is what kind of cash do you have available? 

Purchase price: $185,000 Cash invested: $35,000 Sale price: $671,000This was our 3rd home.

Raising capital thru syndication is a lot more realistic if the sponsor has a significant amount of their own cash to invest.  

Most Hard Money lenders may also require you to have the investment property under contract, in order for them to feel confident you won't try to sue them and you can pay them off either by selling or refinancing  the property you are using the cash out proceeds for.

Cheap entry with a solid cash flow.I would love to connect with others that are investing in rental properties in Blythe or other similar areas in Southern California to learn more.

How should I think about cash vs. equity?  

You should setup multiple ways to accept payment.Our tenants have the following methods to remit rent (no cash) -1) Online payment sysem2) Zelle3) Bank deposit at Bank of America.4) Come to the office to remit funds.

Or just any suggestions for the best bang for your buck areas that offer at least a little cash flow and appreciation ?

Paint, Plumbing, Roof, Flooring, appliances.B- neighborhood.55,750 down payment + 20k in repairs.  75750 all in.Median rent for the neighborhood is 2k.532 cash flow.I already asked them to drop the price by 15k for us to remain in the deal.