Here's how I do my due diligence:1) Portfolio matching: (takes 30 seconds per deal)a) Have an educated opinion on where I think we are in the real estate cycles (financial and physical market cycles)b) Then and only then do I pick the strategies, capital stack, and specialized asset subclasses that make sense for that opinion.

I am currently looking for a mentor in the tri-state area (Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware) and would be willing to work for an education.

The main players in this space are Guidance Residential and UIF, but it turns out that they may just be purchasing a Freddie/Fannie loan on the back end to finance the deal and then structure it differently for the buyer - which isn't in accordance with their religious rules. 

I offer them a cash down payment so they get a lump sum up front, and educate them on the tax benefits to them of taking the rest of their money over time.  

@Ardin CychoszThis is where each party should get an attorneyA buyer and seller who both have no education or experience probably is not going to end well and you cannot have someone representing both of you.Get an attorney and if you cannot afford one then you should reconsider whether you can afford a home.

In the beginning, I made the mistake of trying too hard to educate her.

A good agent can also educate you about things you might not be thinking of.

Educate Yourself ContinuouslyMarkets change, financing options evolve, and new regulations emerge.

You may also want to set some keywords around "agent" and "lender" for that market to get to know who the players are in the space that are involved in the community. 

Bigger Pockets is a great place for education and networking and is full of great content.I recommend that you check out the following resources:1.