I think I found the right folks for Florida online. 

It just seems like it simply doesn't work.For example, I just listened to podcast 295 with Melissa from Lead Propeller, so I was feeling kinda stoked about getting leads online. 

It’s cheap and fast and online.

@Justin R McCullers Go to any Sherwin-Williams store, they have a bunch of business cards for local painters.

Ask how it's being advertised and look online to see if you can find the ads.

I’ve been learning how to do different reno projects from watching and assisting in work being done in my parents house, watching shows on tv to learn some tips, shopping online for materials and learning the costs to get them done and installed, I have created a few extremely detailed budgets to familiarize myself with costs, I’ve studied a few areas I’m interested in and have been following their markets for years, and reading articles on different aspects of the business.

Any tips for a new broker?

Are there any great tips, forums, or advice that anyone can give to find a good mentor to help me along my real estate journey?

The plan/idea is to take out a home equity loan (according to a Bank Of America online calculator I qualify for a loan of $25.000) and use it as a down payment for investment property.

I think once I transition into the transaction side, I'll accelerate my studies and understanding of real estate.Thanks again for the tips!