I am asking because I would like to be in a mutually beneficial partnership even if I benefit much more than the mentor.

I love @John Jackson 's approach of staying close to the attorney because he could be beneficial to you.

I will sometimes also buy one of the books that gets recommended near the end of a show if I do some research and feel it will be beneficial in the areas I am trying to invest in.Sorry this was kinda lengthy, but my single biggest regret is the amount of money I spent on "Guru's" that I could have had to put towards an actual deal!

The borrower does not usually have much choice in the matter, the Lender only gives the money to the borrower (on behalf of the borrower, really) provided they get an appropriate deed of trust or mortgage on real property sufficient to cover the money they are lending.

I find that working with them is generally more beneficial.  

Maybe a shift of population to cities where you have many more choices and can go to a store instead of being limited to the Avon lady.

There is one and only one choice - the national flood insurance program.

You have definitely come to the right place, this is the best place to get information and learn about real estate online.I know what you mean about SoCal being an expensive market since I also live in L.A .Texas could be a good choice and definitely seems to be one of the top states people are moving to and is growing fast.Most places in the country will be able to cash flow a lot better than SoCAL for buy and hold.Take care!

Looks like you made a wise choice!

Five years ago does and gainful employment shows some attempts to rectify his choices...