By the end of the year I had two skilled partners (and many more experienced investors interested in working with me/us) I met in the group.

Build a Strong Team and DelegateAs you grow, it’s critical to surround yourself with skilled professionals who can take on various tasks, allowing you to focus on high-level strategy.

For example In my situation we like to say i’m the sword and shes the shield, as in I go out and look for investments and develop the skills I need for it and shes the budget and risk analysis.

It's not an easy job learning a new skill set this company is looking for people that can turn in a lot of files per month and does not want people who can not provide that..I did my research on this company and thought it was a reputable company obviously I was wrong.

The most important skill to learn: how to manage property!

I am curious if there is a negotiation course out there for landlords to sharpen their skills.

You need to do the ethical thing and inform this person that your not of the correct knowledge or skill level to best represent this transaction. 

With skills like yours you should get connected to a REIA in your area and find someone to work with.  

What is your secret sauce or what skills do you have in your toolbox that help you acquire these properties at discounts? 

Early investing builds equity, generates income, and teaches property management skills, but may strain finances.