As a newbie, you should ask to become their apprentice, even if you have to pay them or split your deals with them until you have the confidence to do it on your own.This point was drive home to me again this morning when I read an article in the Wall Street Journal and one of the most successful deal makers in the world, Mr Schwartzman, founder of the Blackstone Group LP stated, "entrepreneurship in in finance is an apprenticeship, it takes years to get the skills required" You can substitute the word finance with real estate. 

Is there any type of apprenticeship programs?

And I know some real estate gurus can be kinda phony and cheesy but this guy was genuine.Getting to my point, he has a apprenticeship program which you can apply to join, and it's basically a mentor following you step by step to make sure your doing all your translations correctly.

You said "Hopefully this one is different";  probably not, especially if they are active buying, selling or leasing real estate.Most of the people who are new to real estate aren't seeking a professional education, they are really seeking an apprenticeship which is referred to as an education, it is, but it is a type of education, just as a master electrician teaches an apprentice.

Lastly, if anyone in the community has a flip business they are running well - I would love to assist and add value in any way possible, kind of like an apprenticeship.  

They would never pay $30k to a coach as evidenced by their responses because for them that is just another deal (in cash or in down payment) The Reality is if you find a Fund Manager who is willing to offer that an apprenticeship program for $30k that would be a miracle First of all, such fund managers usually do not do coaching at any price (although I had convinced one to do it with me for $25k) And second the coach must have a very good reason to give you his/her time and knowledge.

Im happy to see investors interested in a so called "apprenticeship". 

Joined the service out of high school after a brief stint in a Plumber apprenticeship.

I'm looking to get my feet wet with a seasoned investor in the New Jersey Area...I have time to the volunteer any assistance I can help with. If there's anyone that's willing to give me a shot it would be greatly appr...

However, very, very few put you in practical, "think apprenticeship type" opportunities to learn alongside experts doing large, syndication deals enabling you to rapidly grow your experiences , knowledge and credibility in a safer environment (less bruises and broken bones) without damaging your pocket book and reputation doing bad deals in less than stellar markets.