The experience/knowledge of being an agent will help you so much.  

Being local affords many conveniences based on access and your knowledge of the area.

Possibly partner with a group but would only do money lending or group in exchange for gaining knowledge of how to independently do things.

You have a skillset that could be extremely useful for quick fixes and landlord issues and from there you can bridge relationships and partnerships to enhance your knowledge of real estate investing and couple your skills.

I am excited about gaining more knowledge and deals! 

I have personally known Dmitriy for over 15 years, and my company Marshall Reddick has referred him hundreds of clients since then that have all raved about his service, knowledge, and professionalism.

Lastly, your $8K and market knowledge could be a great start to a partnership with someone who has more funds but less time & knowledge...

The company lists single family homes in certain targeted markets and, through their “knowledgeable investment counselors,” put sellers (the owners of the various properties) and buyers (who they educate, prepare and counsel) together and in the process Norada Real Estate Investment receives a marketing fee.

I recommend you go visit a few times to network with local investors or find an investor friendly agent so you can gain local market knowledge, find off market deals and for things such as showings, picture taking or getting accurate comps.

If these continual expenses are not made  you end up with slum properties renting for a minimum weekly rate to transients.I don’t know your properties so I can’t form a specific opinion; however, based on the information you’ve shared I trust your opinion and knowledge.