I got to the point where I could recognize a deal and now I needed money.

And I strongly agree with @Daniel Vandenbos, it's important to be respectful of their time and recognize their minimal commission on most investment properties.

Im finally in a position to be able to make a deal, so i’m talking to anyone I know to try to find someone to either learn from, partner with, or at least a someone with a proven history who’s already done it and is willing to help give me some direction by answering some questions and giving me their opinions on the first few deals. 

Isn't a "disregarded entity" an entity with a single owner recognized for tax purposes, which is an entity not separate from its owner?

If that is your target I would go with the most passive option possible and lend that to a proven performer at 5% IO paid monthly....I see no reason why you wouldn't have 20 offers to use those funds, probably at a higher rate than that. 

Yes, they are innocent until proven guilty.

@Ariel Kumpinsky it really depends on whether you want to be active or passive and whether you are more comfortable with your own ability to run a successful real estate portfolio vs that of someone (or a group) who has a proven track record doing so.I'd also caution against any deal that counts on underwriting to a refinance to make the deal attractive.

It is essential that you recognize that if a property has been condemned then the  health department and potentially also the taxation department have been involved, condemned properties come with legal issues that if you are buying you MUST resolve.

I recognize you indicate that you do not have immediate plans for the money but you are in a high appreciation market. 

I suppose this is fine as long as you recognize that it's a bet, not an investment.