I prefer certified funds.  

Accountant—CPA who is aware of the ins and outs of real estate and preferably owns rental properties.Insurance agent—someone who is local and can help get the best possible insurance for each individual transaction.Contractor-- someone who gets things done on time and under budget.

Interested for finance or invest in any of the following:*Real Estate*Resorts*Restaurants and Food Courts*Schools Science research*Shipping Cruises & Shopping Malls* Manufacturing firms*Sports Facilities*Constructions firm*Resorts & TourismDo communicate me via email only with attached projects summary/business plan.

Start herehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investing Listen to the podcasts and get involved in the forum discussions by searching your preferred subject.

You don't fully(if at all) trust the newb so you do double if not triple the work for the same pay off.Just giving some food for thought as the decisions are all yours to make at the end of the day.   

It has always been a plan of mine to try to purchase this 4-plex as well and since I am not getting the tenant interest that I would prefer, I think I would like to approach the owner sooner than later.  

I'm really looking for a mentor, preferably someone not to far from me that can show me hands on.

Personal preferences, etc.?

I personally prefer to rehab my properties before I rent, that way I collect more rent and I am able to refinance for more.

Your own appetite for risk will vary.Would I prefer a 20 or 30 year fixed loan?