I have a problem with the way some colleges prepare students for "life," and am looking to get involved with Real Estate investing.

There is plenty of lenders out there now but most of them want to be involved in a good deal.  

You also want to be aware of any self-employment taxes that could be looming.You'll also want to get a CPA involved or a tax attorney from a tax standpoint... what sorts of estimated taxes do you need to pay, what kinds of cash flows can you expect.. 

Remember, there is a fiduciary responsibility involved, so you must be totally honest and make your disclosures. 

You'll have access to MLS to be able to look for deals, keep the commission, list your own deals, referrals commission, document database, you'd have the online tools to submit offers, its a good networking opportunity because you'll be further involved in the real estate community and you'd get more of an educational opportunity because you have to study in order to pass the state exam.The realtor is involved throughout the process.I'm new so I mean.. what the heck do I know?

@Michael Garofalo I'm not a mortgage broker, so take my advice with a grain of salt, but I don't believe the bank would have an issue with it, since at that point his parents are equity partners in the deal and the bank has visibility on all parties involved. 

We have a nice group of people from all around the world involved in real estate here.

Rehabbing will of course be riskier since it's more involved and especially since you aren't local to the property.

Whats the best advice you have for someone who is looking to get more involved?

Understand from a far the demographics, neighborhoods, $ / square foot, etc.