I would like to get involved in real estate because I believe in its advantages as a retirement income vehicle as well as because I find it interesting, love working the numbers and the people side of the business. 

It's typically at your personal income tax rates, but again depends on the vehicle structure.Look in past forum posts/blog posts to get a better idea.At the end of the day most will recommend you get a CPA to help you out as each persons tax situations are unique.You could think about just structuring the money your family member wants to invest as a loan and pay them a fixed rate rather then give them equity.

Real estate investing is a great vehicle because I have been around it for quite a while and never realizing it's presence.

Personally, I would never invest in out-of-town properties that require active management; I'd rather invest in a property fund or some other vehicle that demonstrated reasonable returns and competent oversight, and let them deal with those headaches and concerns. 

I really like the tried and tested investment vehicle known as, you guessed it, real estate.  

One thing you can do that's a little out of the box to get a new/another tradeline is if you own a vehicle free and clear go to your bank or credit union and get a loan against it.

In short, no matter which paint you use, developing a Zen countenance with speed and precision, using quality tools (and matching the right ones to the job) and planning on doing two coats unless you're just refreshing  the colour (tinting a primer for one of those coats can be very multi-functional, saving you from spot priming as well as saving you money) is probably your best goal for d.i.y. success.  

Update: I'm still holding down the job, passed on the 401k, not enough income, paltry company match, no control of fees.My general direction is to qualify for a traditional bank loan or one of the new lenders for a primary residence or duplex.My current vehicle is 15 years old, so I might have to dip into my house fund for something new.

Refinance your vehicle(s) and get 130% the value in cash at ~2%.2.

I'm in MN as well and started looking into Real Estate as a wealth building vehicle less than a year ago.