Hey @Aaron Price, I think the best way you can get started in real estate is to reach out to local investor-friendly agents in your market.

So for example, let's say a friend of mine wants to get involved in real estate but doesn't have the time, knowledge, experience, or resources to do it very well.

Here are a few strategies to consider for funding a down payment:Partnering: Like Gregory mentioned, finding a partner who can contribute to the down payment in exchange for equity or a profit share is a solid option.HELOC or Cash-Out Refi: If you have equity in your home or another property, a home equity line of credit (HELOC) or cash-out refinance can provide the funds you need.Private Money: Reach out to friends, family, or private investors who may be interested in lending you the down payment with a promissory note.Seller Second: In some cases, the seller might agree to finance a portion of the down payment as a second mortgage.Live Frugally and Save: It takes time, but reducing expenses and setting aside funds from your income is a tried-and-true method.The right approach depends on your situation and deal structure, but a mix of creativity and resourcefulness can go a long way.

Hey, I’m an investor friendly agent over here in Rochester.

Individuals are purchasing these properties, rehabbing them, and raising rents.

I focus heavily on the sell side and on the buy side only work with high net worth individuals so the newbie wanting a 400k multifamily with an FHA loan probably isn't for me. 

NJ is very blue, liberal, tenant friendly state.

@Brett Coultas if you're a newbie, you want to be careful of an "investor friendly" agent selling you something they truly don't understand:(95+% of agents only know how to handle owner-occupied transactions - you can verify this by asking them calculate ROI for you or Cash-On-Cash!

I have a potential partner who is a long-time friend.

To get started, consider focusing on house hacking in California with properties like duplexes or single-family homes with ADUs, or explore out-of-state rentals in landlord-friendly markets like Ohio or Georgia.