If you want to try lending and do some buy&hold, then 1) find an experienced HML/Agency and lend through them a few times (they should be able to get you a decent return even after fees) & 2) leverage an experienced syndicator and join their deal as a passive investor - you can always learn about syndication through this "back" door if you will, while making some passive income and enjoying tax benefits of buy&hold investing.If you'd like to speak about it further feel free to PM me.Good luck!

I am happy to help, but let me tell you this story first (it's one of many similar ones in regard to moderation of groups):When I was still at eXp, I offered to moderate their Workplace forum The Watercooler because it was full of spam.

You’ve joined a supportive and knowledgeable group, all here to learn from and help each other grow in real estate.

Join those groups and post your criteria there. 

Lastly, look into joining the local Real Estate Investor Association in Greenville.

We joined Bigger Pockets to learn how to grow revenues and profits through the next several levels of business.   

You have come to the right place to begin your investing journey.Have you looked into attending local meetings and joining Facebook groups? 

Hello everyone. I am eager and excited to be here. Looking to build relationships with experts and also investors in the fix and flipping and also short term and mid term rentals industries. Look forward to meeting.

I joined BP after you posted this.

Join a local landlord association.