Through BiggerPockets I’m looking for education, support, and to connect with investors, agents, mentors, and partners.My buddy and I are looking to purchase a property next year.

Thanks @Buddy Holmes .

My buddy also said the same thing about appraisers, they'll never be the same.

For my first CONUS PCS move, I opted to rent, because I didn't know much about real estate at the time, and I had two buddies who wanted to rent a house together with the three of us.

Cash and a college buddy partner How did you add value to the deal?

If the note / mortgage or deed of trust is actaully only 80k  then they own the entire note and it should be vested with them either through an assignment or a fresh origination where your buddy is the solo bene on the debt instrument.so if they dont pay U foreclose and own the property. 

Loan officer makes maybe $250 on your transaction but has tried to close three others for you and lost $3000.Hard money buddy might fund one knowing he charges lots more money for the juice.

Cheers,Buddy

Fear, confidence, sharing the responsibilities with others, fun to do the work with a buddy, Etc. 

@Buddy Holmes I really like your strategy.