Turnkeys, me and a bunch of people on here can help with those (that's what I buy out-of-state), and DIY, there's a book from David Greene a lot of people talk about on here that might be a good start. 

I did not know until last week that they were already lending in other real estate ventures. 

The reason I ask is because I have plenty of people who would go 50/50 with me on multiple properties, but I will not qualify for mortgages so I was trying to see what the best way to work around that is.Hey AJ,From my own personal Joint Ventures with other partners where I need a qualifier, it's best to not have you on title if your partner can qualify by him/herself.

For the DIY route, David Greene has a book out a lot of people read. 

If there are any actual investors in the area that have done these ventures, I would love to pick your brains and hear about your experiences. 

Question 3: Do I need a lawyer to help me in this venture?

There are private / hard money lenders that will do a joint venture with you.

Overall, out of state investing does not have to be a risky venture if you have the right contacts in your target market. 

Alternatively we will just continue to slowly DIY the renovations ourselves, but I feel like it is tying up our cash and time!

I haven’t ventured out there myself but should consider it.You mentioned owning one or two properties not changing your life.