@Elizabeth Covarrubias it was super casual/informal, but knowing a few of us actually showed up I imagine we’ll begin to make it a little more formal and perhaps bring industry ‘experts’ to share with the group.

The reason was that upon an act of default the holder of the contract for deed was able to gain control of the property through non judicial repossession; in other words state eviction laws.  

I would not go at it alone as there's a huge learning curve if you do not have any formal sales and market experience.

I have no formal real estate experience only 2.5-3 years of reading and research.

If you’re house hacking the first property while you live there be sure to start developing your systems with a formal lease agreement and by having a separate bank account for rent, keep expenses separate and claim the portion of the house the tenant uses on your taxes.

If they are hoarding, or leaving food out for roaches to feast on, or other serious issues, I would send a formal notice (assuming this is covered in the Rental Agreement) with a date for re-inspection.

Posters are mixing up the two terms, "Hard Money Lender" and "Private Money Lender".A HML is a company or individual that formally lends funds.

I guess I was staying away from more formal school and spending until I can gain some traction.

And go slow when choosing partners.Do a deal or two with a partner or partners and see how the team works before formally forming a company.Date before you marry.Lots of folks talk a good game.

Mentorships (non formal) come with time as you show up for meetups, engage in the forums, etc.