Build relationships with active local investors (do your due diligence on them...lots of wannabe's out there).

I am currently active duty in the USMC but will be transitioning out within the next several months.

Now this is all in theory as haven't been able to find suitible property yet but actively working on it.  

However if your time is limited or you have absolutely no interest to be active in real estate for whatever reason, then investing via syndications is a great way to invest considering its benefits.

need a license for this activity if your bringing two parties together rental purposes and taking a fee.. you need to be a PM  

Thanks for bringing some activity to this thread Jay

Cash reserves are a way to help you mitigate risk....but that is a factor completely independent of the risk involved in the activity.

I am an active investor in Valdosta (based here and invest here), and I would love to help you.

The first pillar is avoiding unnecessary and risky activities (don't drink and drive, insurance generally won’t cover your poor decisions) and take good care of your investments(maintain your property, etc) - these simple steps will help you prevent lawsuits before they even occur.

If you're active in real estate, however, you'll become experienced in no time and may not need a realtor.