It helps you build relationship with handymen and contractors, helps you learn the ins and outs of the process a little bit.

As many have said before this is a relationship game, so build more relationships and see what pans out. networking will never be a waste of time.

This will allow you to make money in real estate while also preserving family relationships.

So I just want to free up my funds and establish a relationship which a a couple companies.

That should get you some better responses from locals who have relationships in that state. 

You build relationships one at a time, by building your own track record and being transparent about what you have done and are trying to do. 

Build relationships. 

I only have 1 rental but have managed to keep a really good relationship with the tenant for the last 8 years by having an open dialog about rent.

@Mark Skaff Here are the basic tools and resources you need to get you started:Listing Platforms:Realnex.com - I useCostar.com - I useCatalyst.com - I useBrevitas,com - I useCrexi.com - I useLoopnet.com - I do not useCRM, customer relationship management options, you only need one:Realnex - I useClientlookApto - SalesforceDigsyMarketing package creator, you only need one:Buildout - I useRealnex - I useMicrosoft PublisherAdobe InDesignMarket and financial analysis - advanced tool:STBD - Site-To-Do-Business (Demographic and Psychographic) - I useCostar.com - Rent and sold comp and market analysis data - I useThe Analyst Pro - Online Financial Analysis toolHP10bii calculatorFuel.com - financial analysis toolRPR Commercial - I useNot all these are mandatory and there are many more that compete with the above, these are ones I've used in the past or currently using now.The key is that you have a listing platform outside the MLS, a CRM to track you contacts, clients, properties and deals, a way to create a stunning marketing package, and market and financial analysis tools.

Pretty sure these are your prospective guests:Rod GrubbRosie GrubbAt least they don't have social media pictures like some of my prospective tenants that end up showing themselves smoking pot and cigarettes (they swear they don't smoke), all their dogs (they swear they don't have pets) and their posts are full of relationship drama (my girlfriend won't be here)So you've got that going for you....