Ask them if $500 would be fair enough for a day or few hours of education. 

The forums are full of self-managing landlords who make little mistakes that turn into big mistakes that cost them years of cash flow (or more).If you want to be a DIY landlord, I recommend books, blogs, classes, or other resources to educate yourself quickly.

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

It would also be wise to educate yourself on what a good PM does and doesn't do, how they do it, what they charge and why, etc.My book, The DIY Landlord, will be out in December and can teach you how to select or supervise a property manager.

Start with house hacking, invest in credit and education, and leverage electrical skills.

Honestly, as sexy as it sounds to be active and go after them on your own, as a rookie, even with some book education, the real world can knock you on your azz so I would suggest going with a very experienced and proven sponsor.

I consider myself to be fairly educated but I have no clue what you are asking. 

@Rama KrishnaTo start investing in real estate, set SMART goals, educate yourself, learn market research, and choose a strategy.

I've only been living here for a year and a half, but from my research and getting to know the city the largest industries are Insurance (ALICO), Education (Baylor, MCC, and local ISD's), and Distribution (Coca-Cola, Mars-Wrigley, Dr.

You are touching them and providing some type of education and value to them to bolster your own status, so when you ask for money they are more likely to say yes.And, back to investors or deal first, no broker will ever award you a deal without a reasonable surety that you have the capital lined up.