I also belong to an Angel investor group that "syndicates" investments in early stage companies.Not sure what an investor would be willing to pay for a service such as this, but I am sure the return would be higher if we can participate as equity partners in the deal.

At the current stage, the role of a mentor will really be to hold your feet to the fire and make sure you are actually taking action. 

Guaranteed, tax-free and hassle-free 6% returns are enough for me at my stage.   

Based on the information you provided, I would use a two stage approach. 1.

The properties appear to be in great shape with maintenance records.The bank, a CU, also said they could help me to pay the 20% down by refinancing my paid off personal home so I could hold onto my cash.I'm just in the beginning stages of looking into this. 

I’m a newbie landlord in Cal and have already served the 3 day notice twice with my very first tenant, I’m still in the early stage of this painful eviction process.Tenant claimed heater broke down the second day after I served the 3 day last month.

They are very thorough at carrying out their due diligence at the purchase stage.3. 

This property is in a "high crime" area for Greenville, but decent Elementary School.

We are still in the early stages of research and are looking for any resources that could help give us a better idea of market characteristics.

I'm in my planning stages and I want to figure out what is my best course of action.