However, some sort of business entity to protect yourself would be a good idea in my opinion. - Investment RE in Nashville TN

I have no Real Estate credentials or portfolio of any sort.

I'm just lucky my guys called me before they threw the bucket and the bundle away.I have no expertise in this sort of thing and don't know how I should invest this unexpected windfall. 

Additionally, getting the insurance sorted was very difficult since he had a lender placed policy.

If you do a scope most of the time you end up doing an auger cleaning to remove tree roots or some sort of build up. 

Instead of worrying about that sort of thing I prefer to focus on how I can use real estate to EARN that sum.

You can network with all sorts of local investors that may be doing what you want to do or attend focus group meetings to specialize in niches like multi family, flipping, landlording and more.

I've been interested in buying property in Cle Elum and would probably do some sort of vacation rental.

I use a sort of sandy tone.

In that case, yes, build a relationship with the gym and refer your guests for all sorts of classes and personal training.