@Darren Sager organizes meetings both in NYC and North Jersey areas that you might be interested in. 

I love public speaking and constructive argument which is what the organization was all about.

Most property managers (such as myself) kind of find themselves sort of fall into managing through years of experience as a landlord themselves and then the referrals start, sort of organically.  

Also, you cannot engage in real estate negotiations on someone else’s behalf or even attempt to conduct a real estate transaction for another person or organization unless you are properly licensed.Source:  http://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/resources/brokering-real-estate-without-a-license.htm

If this is your first flip, you would need to sell yourself by mentioning your experience in real estate (Rehabbing, organizing deals, etc).If you're new, I would try to get a few deals under your belt before seeking the funds or try to partner up with someone. 

Form the LLC before getting a tax ID and bank account for it; the banks will require the organization docs of the LLC and the tax ID before they will open a bank account for the LLC. 

A “loan originator” includes individuals and organizations, as well as an employee, agent or contractor of the creditor or loan originator organization.

My advice would be to be well prepared, have nicely organized documentation on your current property including a report that shows current expenses and income, and take that to local banks to see if anyone will work with you.Best of luck!

In my early days I accepted tenants who were referred to me by credible organizations and/or were personally known to me, did not do my due diligence and was burned.  

-getting involved in organizations as a board member, such as non-profit organizations-making friends with financial planners who have OPM to investAs I understand it, per the securities laws, you can't make general solicitations, and there are limits to what you can raise, such as one item in I believe Reg.