Go on Meetup site and search for REI clubs/events.

The local area crime rate is low according to Trulia.com, but I've also heard many realtors laugh out loud at some of the information available on the popular web-sites.

I ask because I've heard many different things, everything from using other websites, talking to people, working with a realtor, looking at places that I've sold, etc.

Guess I just assumed most had to be done on site but those are awesome ideas I will be taking advantage of.

@Russell Brazil  I agree with Russ totally depends on what kind of real estate.. keep in mind that when you ask this on BP 90% of those on this site will gravitate to the only real estate is rental either sfr or small plexs or MF.. there are many many other types of real estate .take for instance in my mind one of the safest and most passive is investing in land in the path of progress.. pay cash and hold it.. nothing to it.. over time if you buy right or you buy a timber tract with middle age marketable timber species like Doug Fir or white pine  west  East  … these are very solid long term safe investments that you just make and sit and wait.some of the biggest money made in real estate though is land in the path of progress.. this keeps you immune from the ups and downs and risks of tenants.. 

Have you done a member search on this site for a plumber in Colorado Springs?

The section 8 website defines a family member as (father, mother, brother, sister, grandparents).

It’s through “bankers healthcare group“ - they have website etc and seems legit but I’ll do more due diligence Running numbers before buying a property particularly if 2 loans are involved is what I am finding difficult at this point

Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/search/usersSet up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/alertsRead Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingCheck out BP Podcasts: https://www.biggerpockets.com/podcastIf you wish to tag someone in the conversation on the forum, type @ followed by their name and then select the name of that person which should appear below the comments box.

For those on this site with no or limited track record, 90% of them don't have $$$ to fund deals/start their business.