For real estate/investing, I have found that an understanding of finance and accounting can be the biggest benefit (if he can take extracurricular courses on sales too that would be helpful). 

14) repeatI've found this to be almost a full time job. 

I found it on Zillow and talked to an agent and a property management company to hear their thoughts on it.

For those who have run or participated in referral programs, what strategies have you found most effective?

I use lending for some lazy money in my life insurance or IRA and can make big chunks of cash in a short amount of time - but I am a full time passive investor and I haven't found a better investment for consistent cash flow than I get with syndications.

What kind of rewards have you found to be most motivating for your partners?

I am also finding that as you mentioned part of the learning curve is knowing what a particular state's law is.At the same time, I have in the past found paying some money for a course has helped me to learn and take action more quickly. 

I found a different builder for my upcoming projects that offers consulting services on a monthly basis.

Currently I have found a deal in which the sellers father would love to finance the deal.

When I first started, I found it really challenging to connect with the right mentors and filter through the overwhelming amount of information out there.