Most of all,  be sure to establish the "what ifs" should all not go well, like vacancies,  additional expenses, costs, and losses, disagreements among the partners, wishes to sell or liquidate when the other party does not, family succession, etc.Everybody gets along great when times are great and it's a brand new venture.Plan for worse case scenarios to both party's satisfaction before anything happens. 

I view networking and relationships as being the basis for staying in the game long term. 

I’m new to this game, curious if 15k$ is too little capital to begin investing into real estate (any type).

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

Have a few questions.I have established a relationship with my bank and spoken to them about my goals of purchasing the apartment and they are open to it. 1.

Anyway, I would like to establish connections and learn about investing within the Colorado Springs area.

that is awesome mate getting into the game this early in life is an adventage on its own mate. to help answer your questions?

Im not a local expert, yet, but I would like to establish myself as one.

Listing entity type when obtaining an EIN doesn't establish tax status. 

The HOA already has an established system in place and aren't going to change things to appease one person.2.