Develop those skills. 

Where to find/hire a full time, skilled and licensed handyman4. 

Even if you are not cash flowing on day one, that's okay (in my opinion), you're not paying the full mortgage on your own, which in of itself is a huge win and you learn other tangible real estate investing skills along the way by simply owning. 

She is also the property manager.There are a LOT of skills, experience, knowledge, and resources required to acquire and operate good investment properties.

However when a great property that fits what we like (ugly and a great price where we can use our skills to make it beautiful) comes around that we can take advantage of our position and get it, we want to be knowledgeable about that property type and be able to jump on it. 

@Henry Clark Your writing skills is excellent.I learned & enjoyed at the same time.

• Resources for Learning: We’re working on improving our deal analysis skills and would love recommendations for tools, books, courses, or calculators tailored for beginners.• Networking and Connections: Are there local Bay Area meetups or forums for new investors?

well that depends on you and your knowledge and your skill/luck etc and no one else. with stocks and with RE, sometimes you get the turn-around projects too, which can suck up your money and be losers or end up as huge winners, when the community recognizes the value add or the company turns it around.

PM is a great foundational skill to move you forward.

Through my coaching, I help them leverage their skills, make meaningful connections, and create a roadmap to financial freedom, all with the support of a trusted network.When I guide new investors, I always emphasize that having the right relationships can be the difference between a good investment and a great one.