Start with house hacking, invest in credit and education, and leverage electrical skills.

I consider myself to be fairly educated but I have no clue what you are asking. 

Ask them if $500 would be fair enough for a day or few hours of education. 

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

The forums are full of self-managing landlords who make little mistakes that turn into big mistakes that cost them years of cash flow (or more).If you want to be a DIY landlord, I recommend books, blogs, classes, or other resources to educate yourself quickly.

@Rama KrishnaTo start investing in real estate, set SMART goals, educate yourself, learn market research, and choose a strategy.

You are touching them and providing some type of education and value to them to bolster your own status, so when you ask for money they are more likely to say yes.And, back to investors or deal first, no broker will ever award you a deal without a reasonable surety that you have the capital lined up.

GENESEO EDUCATION  MA30 YEARS IN PUBLIC EDUCATIONTWO GOLD RECORDS AWARDED FOR PERFORMANCE WITH THE BAND ATLANTA (MCA RECORDS)i INVEST IN REITS, CARS,MUTUAL FUNDS, GUITARS.

Use this time to save up and educate yourself a little better before making the next purchase.

Honestly, as sexy as it sounds to be active and go after them on your own, as a rookie, even with some book education, the real world can knock you on your azz so I would suggest going with a very experienced and proven sponsor.