I went to ask questions about zoning on a property ( I didn't even know what I was talking about at that point) and the architect who was on line overheard and offered to help and provided his business card; right after he handed me the card, I watched him go into the office of the zoning officer for a private meeting, which was a good clue. 

It has everything you need from free online videos and educational courses to having the ability to post blogs and connect with other investors, the possibilities are endless!

I have been listening to podcasts and reading various posts and wanted to start engaging in this online community.  

Some may give you details on cost or some may not.Also i would try to find out from listing agent or owner, if it has access to public sewer and water.  

(Of course that would be contingent upon you becoming an agent at that brokerage and staying there for 6-12 months or something of that nature.)Other good questions to ask them would be what are their commission splits, a breakdown of ALL fees (monthly or annually), what their commission cap is, whether they provide leads for you and if the commission changes if they do, how often they provide training and what the topics of the trainings usually are, do they provide mentoring to help you work through deals, etc.Also, keep in mind that there are fees that the Broker has no control over such as MLS access, ($300/6 mo in PA), Realtor dues if the Broker is a member of the association of Realtors ($600/yr in PA), marketing materials, cost of yard signs, networking associations to network with investors, etc.

Taxes paid in advance actually, no liens could be found through recorder online), however you never know in this world.

If you're looking to access the equity for a long-term investment, it usually makes more sense to go the Conventional refi route to get the better rate & terms locked in. 

Access to over 20 Insurance companies to possibly insure the property.

I've loved having access to the MLS and being able to make my own offers.So here's the thing...

If they are really returning your capital and you have no assumption of debt then absolutely you'll be involved in a step transaction - that's just another way to access profit.But I'm having a hard time picturing that scenario.