Outside of Real EstateMany of the business here in the south don't use digital marketing, ads, etc.

Same principles apply - being busy will create opportunity. 

Real Estate Professional = 750 hours and more time on real estate than anything else.

I took two business law courses in college. 

And selling real estate is usually easier than selling a business.

Hi everyone,I’m looking to dive into the real estate market here in the Des Moines/Metro area and would love to connect with experienced investors, agents, or professionals who are willing to share their insights.I’m particularly interested in learning about your experiences in this market—what’s worked for you, lessons learned, and any advice you’d have for someone getting started.

Wholesaling real estate is a great way to start as you must become familiar with deal underwriting and deal sourcing. 

Does this not suggest that I can opt for the LLC (that holds only public securities - ie, is passive/not a real business) not to be considered a partnership?

Most of these course instructors aren't qualified to teach anything but the most elementary real estate concepts and try to make their courses more marketable by teaching concepts they have no business teaching. 

Joining BiggerPockets is a fantastic first step – it’s where so many great real estate journeys start.