Find and attend a local Biggerpockets meet up, find real estate investor clubs, talk to realtors who specialize in investment real estate, etc.Clean up your personal finances.

I like people in small numbers for short periods of time but I am terrible at making conversation, particularly small talk, and I forget names within seconds of meeting someone.

Find and attend a local Biggerpockets meet up, find real estate investor clubs, talk to realtors who specialize in investment real estate, etc.

@Pat Jackson After meeting with a lawyer together, you should also consult with an accountant.

Learn your market, go to meet ups, meet some lenders and possible partners.    

I learned that you cannot trust every contractor you meet, and that patience is a virtue in the real estate industry.

You need to get out and meet people and start learning.

@CJ DeBergStart attending all the local investor meetings you can.

@Ash Leigh, Although it's not strictly forbidden to purchase property from a related party the IRS is very skittish about it and the charge of shifting basis and step transaction is all too common. 

@Matt Friede, I also recommend Bank of Travelers Rest (try a personal meeting first) and SC Telco (they are a bit outdated in some ways, but gave us some great rates!)