Even if you only close say 30k in commisions for the year, thats a fat down payment.

We just had to replace the fan motor and burner on one and it was about $750.

I paid off 11 rentals last year and have a fat 'opportunity fund' but still have a primary mortgage. 

soap for fats and sugar, I use Coleman stove gas (white gas) for tar or oil based stains, and water for most anything else, go easy on the water as you don't want it to get on the other side of the polyurethane (through cracks and grooves). 

Follow up on tax sales that have not been foreclosed - some fat equities there also.Attend some of my real estate auctions - some good deals there.Make many offers - sight-unseen subject to inspection - do this right and it will accelerate your success in this crazy business.

for me I simply don't need it.. or want to take the time to learn it  LOL  my rolodex is all ready pretty fat.

My only thought is that you are referring to Fat Kat Nightclub?

Since you'll be receiving something (learning, mentorship, money,...) you'll have to provide something of greater value to your employer-to-be.Ideas: Call bandit signs on the side of the road, and tell them you'll do whatever grunt work they need, as long as you learn how to be a better REI.Google "we buy houses Yonkers" Reach out to them and volunteer to do office/phone/email/design workGoogle "sell your house fast Yonkers" Reach out to them and volunteer to do office/phone/email/design workIf you feel really gutsy, legally put 5 bandit signs on the side of the road, and write on them "must sell my house FAST" and put a burner phone number on it.Ultimately, to get what you want (money, experience,..) you have to provide more value to your employer than the cost of them taking you under their wing.Can't wait to hear what gigs you land!

Why not refi the condo, or put a fat heloc on it, and use that to buy something in the Bay Area, where 1- you stand to get real appreciation on, and 2- an area you personally know something about. 

Nothing, big fat zero.What would my cash partner had if I wouldn't agree on that?