I highly suggest you to read, "The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Real Estate Investing".

Make sure to read the Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing

I was wondering if someone has some kind of step by step guide or like a excel template for steps to follow...I have a general idea of steps but honestly I can use all the help i can get.  

While it does have higher cost, you don't want to try and go direct to the builder because they will do all they can to manipulate you as the land seller, where the broker can call BS on moves the builder land acq. guys make, and guide you on all the details.

I am seeking a mentor, someone not to hold my hand but guide me as I take on risk.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Most I've met out here in Arizona are in the end trying to sell me education for thousands of dollars or sell me there guides for money aswell.

Most I've met out here in Arizona are in the end trying to sell me education for thousands of dollars or sell me there guides for money aswell.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meetSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/category/podcast/If you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.