We have a foundation specialist coming out and will do geological survey if there is any question it needs assessment.

Any smart lender would want the sellers 50% debt subordinated to theirs.If you are trying no money down you do not have skin in the game.

There are multiple ways to skin the cat.Anyway, just buy a place and (preferably at a discount, which you might get in next six months and ideally one that you can put a little work into to create some equity) rent it out.

After speaking with their mortgage specialist (i don't recall the title), I was pre-approved for $250,000. 

I plan on investing for cash flow with future properties but needed to get my skin in the game somehow and figured this would be the best way to do it!

You should reach out to @Sara Frank, she is a Baltimore investor specialist. 

I am investing in a deal in February where the syndicator is taking no asset or property management fee in addition to the property manager and also has skin in the game.

They have more skin in the game then you do.Make sure you get clear title.

Investors generally like to see that:- You have Experience- You have skin in the game- They make money first, before you.

Find one real estate specialist of which there're many on this board, including a few who replied or were mentioned.