I have some of my own ideas on what to do with this cash but want to pick other people brains as to what to do with it.

In-Person Pick - I have an older tenant where we picked up the check from her house.

If you want to learn more about investing and house hacking, I would consider speaking with a realtor that is knowledgeable on that topic and pick their brain.

Pick his brain.

The other thing I recommend is picking a niche within a niche and becoming a master at it.

Find a lender/local bank in the area you wish to invest and pick up the phone to chat to see what they can offer you.

For example zoning calls for 6 stories, but city planners have seen several applications result in 9 stories.So we use what's exactly written in the zoning code for the property, pick the best use of the land that would net the best result. 

Just wondering the best way to pick out a brokerage, best way to start out, any advice?

The other thing I recommend is picking a niche within a niche and becoming a master at it. 5 transactions in your first 12 months is a very achievable goal.

. ;)Mostly the small MF's are a no man's land in my view - picked over by anyone who has transitioned from small landlord to larger player.