Also, my husband is extremely handy in carpentry, so he is able complete work on some projects himself.Our ultimate intent is not to just invest in real estate, but also to invest in salons or other businesses ventures as a result of growing our real estate investments.

I understand either way, especially with your mind on a new venture, and not as actively involved in RE..

I would focus on trying to make connections in the area you want to invest and trying to do some Joint Venture.

Sounds like you found a great business venture; hire some Dev's. build an App and I will gladly test a beta for you!!

(he also owns 2 other rental homes in same subdivision.To further confound you, I expect to turn even a better profit in my new venture building homes in The Villages in FL.

Ideally we are looking to purchase these properties, but we are certainly interested in joint-venturing or providing cleanup work for the owners as well if they would not be interested in selling the property.In an effort to help search for these properties, I was hoping to connect with a local real estate broker, who could help keep an eye out for these types of properties, compensated for by a finder's fee % of the profit if a cleanup deal goes through. 

I've learned a lot about what to do, and what not to do, since I ventured into this business in 2005.Ursula

I starting becoming convinced that perhaps I needed to take a lot more courses before venturing out the door to further my RE-education out in the trenches.

Additionally, I am a prudent business professional and I take my business very seriously, be it as an employee, or in my own investment ventures.

If you are doing a joint venture with the partner, the disclose that and both of you go on the loan.