She is a real estate agent but rents so no property to place a lien on.Need to know a couple of more details first: Is/was the mobile personal property or real property?

It's always nice to get a personal referral. 

That's just my personal way of really feeling like I've comprehended the topics rather than just listened to them. 2.

It can be a very good market, but the why behind your choice may help us give you better advice on how to move forward.Before realtors and property managers, you really need to meet other investors so you are making a good move by trying to do that here, but it would be better if you could do it in person.

Personal loan for renovations How did you add value to the deal?

If I understand correctly; the seller would receive 80% ($40,000) directly from the mortgagee at closing and would enter into a personal agreement with me for the 20% down payment ($10,000) in which he would be reimbursed separately from my mortgage payments at a separately agreed upon rate and term?

@Pranita Maldikar Unless the seller is a family member or personal friend, I'm not sure why you'd want to put that much money down on the property.

Initially I didn't have a personal connection to the area and didn't know much about the city.

Personally I would just get the proper licensing and insurance if I wanted to manage properties for others. 

If you need more to do the rehab, perhaps instead of partnering, you could get your former boss to do a personal loan.