I will definitely get signed up on FF and see how it goes.

I was drawn to real estate as a way of investing money I have saved up (around $130K with additional funds to leverage out of a 401K if needed), and potentially creating reliable cash flow over the next 10 years. 

I was house hacking a duplex with a VA loan and there were some beams that needed to be put up in the basement.

Ended up partnering with my parents 50/50 and actually was able to buy two properties the same month.

I've heard of the Red Stick group although I was not aware of their monthly meet ups thanks for the insight. 

Perhaps its time to up grade the entire kitchen.As for the washing machine, I would simply say to the next tenant, there is a hook up.

I am looking into turnkey investing. I currently have a duplex in Milwaukee and am living in a single family home that I plan to turn into a SFH rental. I would like to purchase another duplex in the near future and a...

I would check the events page in your area for meet-ups on BP, I would check for local meet-ups in meetup.com, and I would get coffee with as many investors on this site that are in your area as you can to get the ability to showcase what you are willing to bring to the table for them. 

Is real estate wholesaling a realistic way to start up my real estate journey, and if so, how can I get started in this field?""

When it comes to investors specifically, I recommend attending any and all real estate meat ups.