Start with people you know, people you work with.

If people are not willing to a small amount on a background check, that's a clear sign you should not deal with these people.

Just wanted to make sure I wasn't missing something.

I show people my projects all the time. 

I joined to learn more through reading the  discussion boards and by offering my services to people in the DFW area. 

@Gregory ReevesI think many miss the boat on the “you can’t.

Utilizing meetups, you could get referrals and meet real people in your area.

For most people, that will be in their own backyard.

Am I missing something obvious? 

First, build the actual business in theory with a brand.Second, go to every real estate investor meetup in the area and see if this is something that people would pay for and if so, how much.