The seller offered financing with 20% down, which I used to buy the place.After starting construction and realizing it was going to cost more than expected, I approached a small local bank that knew the property and would offer the rehab financing. 

I'd start talking to her and looking for another place for her to live. 

@Asseille OdelCFRI.netCheck out the calendar of events and start volunteering - it’s the best way to meet people there.

For the crowdfunding and similar platforms that are starting to rise, would the lower returns be a result of the diversification they provide or due to the different risks they come with?

If you ask the manager to justify a fee and he starts hemming and hawing, move on or require them to remove the fee.

I just don't want to start working with a realtor and waste time and end up with no real solid prospects for buying.

I spoke to her and they were going to do a light remodel (barely lipstick on a pig) and start renting the place. 

Seconding what @Max Wilhite said, Multi-Family is a great way to get started.

Unfortunately, with the number of pivots that are publicized and at inexperienced investor’s disposal, there’s never been more avenues for inexperienced investors to hold on too long.I hope inexperienced investors are mindful of this because I am constantly interacting with investors who are falling for these traps and doing immense harm to themselves, even if they may not be fully aware at the time of their decisions.It's crucial for investors, especially those just starting out, to recognize that not every investment will pan out as hoped (unlike what the gurus will tell you).

I’m just trying to figure out where to start in terms of figuring out what makes sense.