There's no reason for anyone to grow up and invest, they can choose shopping centers and apartments right now.I have asked many investors what type of real estate crowdfunds they prefer, and have read many articles and posts about crowdfunding.  

Lesson learned......explore all options and resources.

I'm new to the forum but read articles on here quite frequently. 

They are both great at learning the fundamentals.Also - here's a couple articles you might enjoy:The 21 Best Real Estate Investing Books Ever How to Rent Your House: The Definitive Step by Step GuideHow to Be a Landlord: Ten Tips for SuccessOh - and don't forget to set up your Keyword Alerts!

Make sure to listen to all the BP podcasts, read the articles on the main blog and be active in these forums to learn a ton very quickly about any topic in real estate you want to know more about.This is also a great place to meet people that can be assets to your business.

If $600.00 is simply for the Articles of Organization without any other document then it seems a bit unreasonable to me.  

HI:Just found this group and excited to learn more as I explore investing in real estate.  

* Exploring my options in investing out of state.

This is an area of much confusion worthy of discussion.There is an article by first tuesday that addresses this whole issue, I don't have it at my finger tips right now or I would post a link.My understanding is this: If you are an agent in a particular transaction, you must do all the things you suggest.

He wrote an EXCELLENT and classic article years ago on performing due dilligence on all real estate.