I want to educate myself and offer my skills and motivations. 

Also I would suspect Within sfh that if an area close by is popular or up and coming you should see some uptick in demand for your sfh and you shouldn't see the fire sale mentality that you get every so often when one you have a unit in a condo type setting for example that you're trying to get rid of.I think it's a great idea for you that continue to take your time improve your skills and knowledge of Real Estate and then proceed forward once you have a greater level of comfort so kudos to you.

The issue is the girlfriend and I will be quitting our jobs come January and traveling abroad for 4-5 months in SE asia/ NZ, to teach CPR and basic medical training (Volunteering). 

Talking to the home seller is a most critical skill, see my BP blog "Make money without banks or credit" for how to talk to sellers.

When you say you are willing to help others to learn, what is your RE skill set?

I want to learn hands on before I make my first investment and wanted to see if anyone knew of a good way to freelance for investors using the skills I currently have.I live in the Cleveland area and could assist with any opportunities onsite or that would require a local presence but I would also be interested in anything that could be done remotely.I am interested in hearing what you all think.Cheers!

Keep looking and learn that knowing when to pass on a deal, even if it might make some money is a good skill to have.  

Depends on your own personal skill set.

Alternatively, if you are not accredited but have resources or skills and time to bring to the equation, you can get up to speed and then approach partners that have what you might not have (skills, experience, cash, etc) and fill their need.  

He's been there over 10 yrs and is skilled and well connected. feel free to contact me for more info.