If you will be doing future deals with your co-worker you might consider forming an LLC or partnership.

Start looking at multifamily deals, analyze deals using tools like BiggerPockets, learn about multifamily investing, and network with local investors.Good luck!

Let experienced RE investors deal with this risk

High interest rates and dwindling capital reserves have led smaller investors, who have long driven the market, to pull back.Shift in Investor BehaviorFor years, individual investors fueled price growth through small-dollar deals, but rising interest rates have made them less aggressive.

IRS liens, municipal liens, utility liens also transfer to the high bidder.I'd contact the owner and see if a pre-auction deal can be struck, which would eliminate the auction competition. 

BP has various tools to help you analyze your deals (rentals, flips, wholesale, etc). : https://www.biggerpockets.com/investment-calculators7.

Full-service property managers" or Turnkey providers aren't really a thing in Columbus because if you want a deal that makes sense you need to source it yourself off-market to add value and provide it to clients.

I would listen to a ton of podcasts, read books, and get started by find an investor agent who can connect you with a good lender that can fund your deal. 

I had several other investors lined up interested in this deal...

I typically walk the properties for them, facetime and help analyze the deals prior to them coming up to view themselves.