How specifically could they have done that?

My biggest advice for people would be as follows.Know why your in the real estate game, and why a specific niche.

From my experience, attending local meetups, lending-specific events, and networking with experienced investors can open doors.

Are there any tools, websites, or resources you’d recommend specifically for real estate investors in Ontario?

There are a high number of CPA firms that do not want to get involved outside of the FYI to their clients, and some state boards are saying that a CPA advising related to this registration is an "unlicensed practice of law" given it is not under Title 26 - income taxes - the only place where CPAs and EAs are specifically authorized to interpret law. 

I think in very specific markets this is doable.. 

They won’t offer financial advice or specifics about what they think you should do but are there to answer questions and help you look at things from different perspectives.

Quote from @David Martoyan: There are many, they need to be market specific..

Eager to hear if anyone has any more up to date information about Costa Rican REI in general and/or VRBO specifically

While I’m not in Little Rock, I’ve found that networking with local brokers and property managers can be key to uncovering neighborhood-specific insights.