The real problem here is that we're going to face a huge shortage of available properties.

Join your local REIA-they usually have lots of skilled and experienced people willing to help.

You can use your analytical skills in analyzing deals and analyzing markets but don't use it too much (or else you will fall into analysis - paralysis).

We are investigating how we could create opportunities to utilize our skills in this industry.Being retired but not ready to quit working, and my husband nearing the same, we are looking for an opportunity to work together, using the diverse skills we have.

I hope to learn skills (I will enjoy) that will keep me employed for the next 20 years.  

Trying to improve my skills and assist other people in learning as well. 

VA's much like any other employees will vary in skills and it's completely unrealistic to think that one VA can do everything for you.

Also to @Kevin Zimmer's point about you being able to analyze a property, don't forget that that's a skill.

However, I have seen many short sales where their actually was equity in the property and the shortage consisted the past due payments, a real estate commission, attorney fees and costs from the foreclosure process, court costs and closing costs. 

We have a very large network of local investors on this site from all areas of RTP so you should have no shortage of folks to connect with.