I am excited about the long term potential of this area! 

As of right now, I do not have the cash to do this but do not want to lose excitement/motivation in the process.

It is definitely great that you and your friends are excited about this.I am not trying to "poke holes" in this plan, but be aware that an LLC is a big deal when you are partnering with 4 other people.

Bonus if it can be turned into an educational how-to guide.The resident can either pay out of pocket for any work needing to be done, or they can let the GNA cover it in exchange for direct principal payments off the original market price purchase.Make a simple guide to what needs to be done on a regular basis, and establish a plan for what the resident can handle, vs what the GNA provides.Create synergy with kids and grandkids to accomplish common/ regular tasks.Opportunity for daycare/ day camp, or even homeschool type services.Opportunity for future continued business partners to take over living on the residence.Preferred scenario, resident pays for material and professional labor, and the GNA provides cheaper labor for easy tasks etc.Residents may pay part of the labor cost, but ideally if the GNA has cash to pay internal employees, then those costs get applied as principal payments.Explore options that let GNA employees trade time for ownership of that specific property, instead of traditional pay, or use it as an overtime bonus.Find ways to incorporate local artists and craftsmen, and make unique projects that incorporate the story of the house as told by the resident.

BUT all of the excuses and distractions aside my curiosity and excitement to learn about real estate investment never ceased. 

This can feel exciting, but you need to have your numbers firmly in place before you ever place a bid, and know when to fold your hand.- Be able to confidently walk away.

We have excited to get up to the area.

I'm so excited to begin this journey.

But as someone who has been saving and has a stable career, I am excited for the opportunities that will come from this because I’m sure there will be plenty of great opportunities to make some good money.

I'm excited to get my feet wet however I live in NY and the property costs here are way too high to be able to cashflow.