Can you all please help a newbie (no pun intended) out and point them in my direction?

Maybe it is going to turn around, but I'll have to see a lot more solid evidence of it before I buy into it (pun!).

Sorry to burst any bubbles (no pun intended) or unveil some secrets among us locals.

No pun intented, hahaha.Thank you for your suggestions.I"m trying to build a step by step process for how to handle each step of the process with an out of state partner, while providing as much protection for him as possible.I'll pm you about talking.Ian

Stream of income always trumps (sorry for the pun) a one time cash out money.

Depends on how hot the market is....pun intended 😄

You already have a lot of tools in your toolbox....no pun intended.Now, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.Ok, now that you have taken your initial step, below are some quick links to get engaged. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meethttps://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/ruleshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/termshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/inviteshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/perkshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/categoriesREI books suggested by BPershttp://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?

I like tacos and bad puns, so sounds like we could get along. 

Matt,I'd consider myself a literal resident expert (pardon the pun) on house hacking in Colorado Springs.

You already have some tools in your toolbox....no pun intended.Now, you simply have to work on the other elements to progress your REI pursuit.Ok, now that you have taken your initial step, below are some quick links to get engaged. http://www.biggerpockets.com/startherehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSetting up Keyword AlertsHow to Use @Mentions on BiggerPocketshttps://www.biggerpockets.com/rulesREI books suggested by BPers http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2013/04/14/best-real-estate-books/?