Seems like you got a good start :)You can meet local investors both on this site, by being active in the forums, making connections with local investors, and even better by attending local events or real estate meetings.

Staying active on these forums and listening to podcasts can help you as well :)

I don't want to build a team of investors yet but just myself and friend of mine decide to be active investors is there a need to have an attorney close the deal?

Not sure of condition or current tenants, but is it crazy to actively pursue this one for a first property?  

*Note: this post is intended for investors who actively DO NOT automatically file a 1040 every year, unless they've incurred a tax liability.I'm wondering what difficulties investors who understand (have read the pertinent details of the tax code) have faced when engaging in investment opportunities that normally require an investor to furnish tax returns, and what solutions have they come up with.From my experience in banking, I understand that institutional lenders normally require a borrower to furnish yearly personal financial statements and tax returns.

Go to home depot (or favorite big box store) at 6-7am and look for the guys that are not driving the $70,000 truck but the beat up one and build a relationship with them on one property.

I would start there or check loopnet and see which brokers are really active, especially in the 20 unit range you're in and call them for a referral.

I've been selling my least favorite smalls as they become vacant anyway. 

Is it for a down payment or to facilitate other investing activities?

I am actively looking and in contact with a couple different sellers.