But I have close to nothing to offer as collateral, and no liquidity for a down payment.I would search for an answer to this question if I could think of the right way to phrase it in a search string, it's probably a stupid question, but here goes:Would it be possible to offer something MORE secure, thus making lending to me less risky, than merely allowing them to become the 1st position lien holder?

It seems they check for visual, electrical, moisture, mold and gas.If it really is that simple than soft inspections can be done much cheaper and faster and more often by a trusted but non - certified joint venture partner.While I'm in the area I can do a demographic, a title, and a infrastructure forecast search.

So I don't have a business model in which to provide you, but my two cents:1) Identify what your main bottle neck is in the process.

If anyone is searching for a contractor, please dont hesitate to contact me. 

As for your other questions- identify your long term goals and adjust your investment strategy to push you towards that end. 

I was looking for my first job in the Real Estate industry but I was also contemplating if I wanted to jump right into the industry on my own dime and must've come across BiggerPockets in my searches.

I’m re-educating myself and searching for the “gem”.

Here you can look for the type of record you are searching for or if it doesn't have a listing to choose from it will have a recorder's name and number you can contact for the information. 

@Tom S. my initial internet searches made arguments for both DIY and using an attorney.

In my searching I noticed some of the propeties will say that there are tenants currently living in the other units.