Build a relationship with a good hard money lender in your market, and simultaneously spend your time finding a solid real estate deal with equity (70% ARV preffered).

Is it possible to do both simultaneously?

Simultaneously, attend all of your local REI meetups to start building relationships and learning your market.Don't ask for something for nothing.

I send all my deals to same contractor, so i get better price than what he quotes to everyone (he currently works on 4 of my projects simultaneously).

Took it as far getting approval to go through the short subdivision process, while simultaneously searching for a money partner.

Some times they utilized simultaneous closings.  

Question: Is it an illegal conflict of interest for me to be investing in commercial/multi family real estate with investor money (private equity fund) AND being a commercial agent and eventual broker simultaneously at a different firm?

Is it difficult to get approved for 2 separate buildings simultaneously for our 1031? 

It was for 3 duplexes purchased simultaneously so out of town investor could complete 1031 exchange.

@William Samuel CravenI am a CPA and I will make the argument that a CPA can prolly be one of the last members that you need to find on your team.I would suggest first finding an area that you want to invest in.Then find professionals who can help source you deals if you can source them yourself(Agent, Wholesaler)Simultaneously, find a lender who you can work with who can provide you an estimate of your buying power.Then comes the property management team / contractorThen after that i think should come the attorneys / CPA's.Best of luck in building your team.