I didn't start out in RE part time, I was full time, however I did not have much financial padding, knew nothing about RE and had virtually no sphere so I at least know a bit about scrambling in the beginning. :)I'll try to break this down so it doesn't end up too long.

You're quite wrong @Marisa Rowe, Oz has always boomed and bust like it is now.

@Alyse Oz call Lombardo Environmental and get a second opinion.

Network with other investors to see who they are using.If you are looking into private lenders for the future, they are, by definition, people you already know from your sphere of influence, so talk to everyone about what you do.

Basically, the idea is to work your "sphere of influence" (friends, family, former colleagues, etc) in order to find clients, while at the same time expanding your sphere of influence.

I'm in the process of sending out [sphere of influence] letters, but it's to people who I know.

Previous spacing was 6" it is now 4".Baluster Spacing (Sphere Rule): The general rule is to install balusters and newel posts between the handrail and flooring materials so that a 4” sphere (the head of an infant) cannot pass through.

If a business owns a property you are interested in, this can help you figure out who is the wizard behind the curtain (to use a Wizard of Oz metaphor).HOA COVENANTSIf the property is in a subdivision with a homeowners association or condo association, the HOA can set additional rules about what you can do with the property.

Most people start with their inner sphere (family, friends of family, acquaintances) that have money saved up and either want a better return than they can get from a CD or money market account, or something that is more secure and predictable than the stock market. 

,I think that the "anti-trailer" sentiment that is written into most local ordinances is lost on many investors who are outside of the mobile home investment sphere.