You still run credit/criminal, check references, verify income, etc.

How's your credit?

@Michael Newman ideally your W-2 job would serve dual purposes, both focused on your passion... 1) build capital and establish credit worthiness with which to pursue your passion, and 2) give you experience in a career you're passionate about. 

Make sure your credit is as solid as possible. 

The only way you can have it accurate if you balance your books and reconcile your bank and credit card accounts.

I've searched around and came across a few poorly designed websites on Google with no reviews anywhere who offer the rental listings.  

From a bank standpoint, they will have a clear picture of who owns what and has what degree of liability;  however, all of the investors will have to produce tax returns and documents to the bank to show they are credit worthy. 

My credit score is pretty good (700-720) .

I've had a very interesting proposition for a new on the market, higher end, flip property.....A buyer, due to personal issues, has bad credit - but cash in hand.

Low risk and potential to make a sizeable return without using credit or very much cash makes this a very attractive way to invest in real estate .