They will all try to steer you down the safest, shortest route to their paycheck.  

I have about 15 years of experience in web programming and I'm sure I can steer you where you need to go.

I have no doubt that this website will steer me in the right direction. 

Was steered onto the quiet title process and went through it.

Mostly because your referral fee and the wait for said fee won't entice them enough to steer their clients away from the other vehicles that truly get them paid.What you, and every other investor who wants their own private money partners should do is run an MLS search of all properties in your farm area that were clearly flips in the last 24 months, then Redfin each property and look at the recorded transactions to see if deeds of trust were placed on the property when first purchased, then run a title search of those deeds to see who the beneficiaries are, then track down those beneficiaries any way you possible can...and convince them to work with you.Good luck sir!

personally, i would steer clear of any of the gurus who want to help you succeed for a fee. if they really wanted to help why would they willingly put you in a position to reduce your much needed capital at the onset of your endeavor which is just going to set you back longer. there are lots of mentors who would like to help if you are willing to help them in return. seek them out and save that money for your house, not the gurus mansion.

It looks so good but maintenance is something I need to steer clear of.

I've loved the idea of owning property for a long time and it's time to get rid of regrets and take hold of the steering wheel of my retirement.

I can't help you, but thought this is a great idea, hope someone can steer you in a direction.Have you looked at any schools that have been converted into condos? 

I've been told seller financing is a way to steer the negotiation on my favor offering full price for the property but on my terms.