Here's a list Matthew:https://www.biggerpockets.com/rei/colorado-real-estate-investment-clubs/Each group has its own culture.

Even though the cash flow is better than real estate, the risk of running it is more than what I can bear, and I sold it after 6 years.My dad was retired at the time, and I considered buying a small Chinese restaurant, takeout, and have him run it as manager, and part time if he wants to.

Offer to pay them for advice to help you become financially successful.Meanwhile get an education, learn from other, get a real estate license, hang around real estate offices, read listings, list and sell real estate, get into that messy culture, lean to be positive, take courses on public speaking, take the Dale Carnegie course on How to Win Friends and Influence others, and read, read read.Attend public auctions, attend settlements, listen more than talking.

I know of some condo complexes just over the line, into Florida, that have Chinese drywall stigma, but not all the buildings have Chinese drywall. 

Pace not only attracts quality, but his team work their butts off to ensure the culture thrives. 

The fact that the agency had recommended me was good enough to get me in the door, and all the client wanted to do was make sure I would fit in with the company culture (was I easy to get along with, was I willing to learn, and so forth).But I've seen both extremes.

Im starting out on my path in Los Angeles, CA due to density and a predominant rental culture.

I am finding a few lenders are passing as they either don't know how to process an application for income abroad, or because my employer is a Chinese company, don't issue W2'a or 1099's and don't issue traditional paystubs (I just receive cash in dollars, which I deposit to my US bank). 

I guess it is similar to every primary residence house we've bought, where we have insisted on staying well below what we are qualified for, not the cultural norm.  

And in my area, they tend to be cheaper than sf, easy to rent, and have appreciated nicely (few blogs about them as appreciation plays)..The key is also finding an association where you even can rent them  (allowed by condo declarations/by laws etc), and even the organizational culture needs to be open to renters (many forums on restrictions).