The correct answer depends on your goals and the individual deals.

I know a handful of individuals who have indicated to me that they would consider investing in real estate in the future. 

I've been fortunate enough to meet some really real estate educated individuals through meetUp and would be very thankful to meet more either like-minded individuals looking to grow or those who would like to share strategies/help guide me in the process.Biggest hope is to understand how to efficiently assess a properties value/cash flow capabilities and negotiate with the best of them.

Not sure how to respond individually to each reply so I will just reply in here. 1.  

It's great to see so many like minded individuals helping each other out and building financial freedom. 

If you are holding title as an individual, you will likely be required to pay withholding through escrow.

I am looking to exchange knowledge about real estate investing with other individuals with unique strategies.

There will be an excess supply of units and small landlords will be competing against product designed expressly for millenial tastes.

I found private money lenders, as in individuals or husband and wife team locally that just loaned on 2 deals and working a third in the last 30 days.

Look for an agent that has invested in the past or currently is investing, but one who won’t be competing with you for deals.7.