Here are a few I recommend: "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" by Roberto Kiyosaki; "Set for Life" by Scott Trench; "The Unofficial Guide to Real Estate Investing" by Spencer; "The BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide" found here on BP; "The Book on Rental Property Investing" by Brandon Tuner.

I focus more on building long term equity myself, but you need significant cash flow just to survive problems that will arise.

Ultimately it is their decision what they want to get. 

It may be for rehab price ultimately because I think the lot price for new construction is in the un 20K range for now.

You won't save 20% by hiring your own subs, you will lose money doing it that wayNo one wishes you ill, just remember no battle plan survives first contact with the enemy, so all your advance planning needs to be accompanied by a strong sense of "how to adapt", good persuasive and communication skills and backup plans.  

Ultimately, it depends what your goals are on which method will fit best for your situation.  

The mentorship program is solid, but success as a real estate agent is ultimately up to the individual and their work ethic.

Ultimately when it comes to using leverage it is about knowing your exit strategies.

I've got capital and I'm actively looking for a new property to ultimately hold as a long-term rental.

While X may score on one deal by going around you, ultimately his or her business will suffer. 2.