Although I agree that neither you or I (I too am new to REI) would not have much to offer if we attempted to partner with others on a large apartment complex but I say sit down and figure out your WHY.

Your situation is pretty complex, but after reading your post a few times I think I understand the question. 

First off you have to identify what kind of investing are you looking to do (single families, apartment complexes, etc.). 

For example I am interested in a small storage complex in my area.

So I have a complex (at least I think so), situation I need help with.

Another plus of the boot is the visual and social pressure, especially in a large complex.

Same areas near Hillside shopping complex(Target, Holiday Inn) tend to be B- whereas the rest of the town is a solid C+.

Any recommendations on good management companies in the area that can handle small to mid size apartment complexes?

So I own a few SFR and want to move up to apartment complexes.

I'm focused on multi-family complexes and I will be doing 1031s every 3-5 years.