To find one (aside from word of mouth), search for your state/areas society for professional engineers.

My first couple months, I literally read 10 books and listened to hours of video/audio.

Veterans VideoVeterans buy a home with NO down payment.  It is easier than you think.  

BTW someone willing to pay rent above market rate is a high risk renter for some reason--felonies, past evictions, bankruptcy, poor credit, no or not enough income, or way toooo many people, or history of damage, professional scammer, etc.The landlord would not even be holding the lease to evict the folks you rent to, not have their deposit for damages, or any relationship with the tenants to recover damages in court as the tenants lease is with you.  

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Funny thing is she had an agent and they were very organized pay check stubs, reference letters, clean background, etc... but, a professional scam artist. 

Ok so lets be realistic, obviously new investors or amateurs aren't going to be able to get professional investors to give a majority profit on new ventures , but what is the best way to start a partnership percentage speaking?

See video here -- https://www.youtube.com/watch?

Or small apartment buildings.Or, looking for properties to flip in the $X - $X dollar range.Also, how would you like to communicate - text, email, video conference.