@Jason Weidmannit's only solid if:1) you pick a market that you can go to in person and build a team first, and 2) you recognize that RE is a long-term investment, and you may have to wait 5-10 years, or longer, before seeing ANY return. 

Plus the average person probably finds Akron more obtainable given funds available.

If you're looking for a more landlord-friendly market, I personally recommend Columbus OH.

Even I can do it, and I am generally the most unhandy person on the planet!  

Hi Adam,The seller pays the seller commissions and (usually) covers the buyers commissions as well so you shouldn't worry about those fees.The 10% vs 20% I feel like is a personal opinion.

Account Closed It will only show on your credit report if the person who is holding the notes goes to a servicing company so it is recorded.

And does the person doing the labor get paid or only the materials paid for by the partnership?

I'm not sure about the potential for liability in a wrongful death suit if somebody is injured or killed in the fire, but definitely would not want to find out personally, nor would I want to live with that on my conscience.  

There are many resources for you to connect online and in person.

Quote from @Elizabeth King: I have a property in my personal name that I plan to rent annually.