Just A Little Advice Before Beginning
Wanted to run something past the sages. Have been a real estate appraiser for past 23 years. Know my area like the back of my hand (Sacramento, CA). Appraising has recently slowed and I'm going to take advantage of lull. My game plan is to network with hard money lenders, mortgage brokers, r.e. brokers. Create mailer for out of town owners, monitor MLS, contact defaults and owners of distressed looking properties, show up at courthouse auctions. Anything else I can do to make a go of it? Am desirous of doing this fulltime eventually. 
You might want to try looking into an REI organization or club. You may find a new set of investors there.