Would love to connect and discuss our goals and see if we can organize a meet up or just learn from one another!

If at all possible, I would love to meet up with you over coffee to pick your brain on REI in general and specifically what you look for in the Columbia area.I'm looking to buy my 3rd investment property in the next 2-3 months so I'm starting the searching process soon.

We should meet and talk some time, perhaps one day at my property.

You're basically there to help them by buying at a fair price and get them rid of potential problem and hassle. when I meet people in that situation I tell them: I'm sorry for your lost, just wanted to let you know that if you are interested in selling xyz property, then I'd be willing to make an fair offer on it and help them avoid potential adversity by buying with no condition and quickly. 

Meeting experienced investors near you would be a good way to get the hands on guidance you need.

I was recently at a meeting where the speaker stated that many investors made their seed money in other ventures such as owning restaurants, a professional career such as CPA, etc.

You can also go to website meetup and search REI meetings there.

Meets 3 times a week throughout Charlotte plus a monthly meeting the second Thursday of each month.

Call the hard money lenders in your area and ask for phone numbers of good wholesalers they work with and make loans to often.Also,you can attend local real estate investment club meetings and meet wholesalers directly.I wouldn't trust Craigslist to find someone to mow my lawn quite frankly.

Thanks Jo-Ann, nice to E-meet you.