Remember that finding a Realtor is relatively easy since they are all motivated to find deals for you and must adhere to a code of ethics.

You don't lack motivation, you lack clarity, I personally think a good coach will help you with what you are trying to accomplish.

There seems to be this focus on low hanging fruit, motivated sellers, flips and rentals.

It sounds like a great opportunity, especially with the location near theme parks and convention centers.Nice job negotiating a lower price with motivated sellers—that’s a smart move.

Find a motivated seller.

I was incredibly saddened... if anything they should have integrated Credit Karma into Mint not the other way around. 

tons of real estate investing podcast on apple podcast such as BiggerPockets, Lifetime Cashflow through Real Estate, Multifamily investing made simple, just to name of few. don't forget to listen to motivational and self improvement podcasts because mindset is everything 

It’s been an incredible journey of self-managing the property—living in one of the units for three years and gradually renovating three out of four as tenants turned over.

These are just a few examples but there are many motivating factors that lead  a bankable borrower to work with an alternative lender.  

A couple of them are big time investors these days with over 40 houses each and have moved up to STRs and commercial properties.Find someone that will share their opinions and suggestions and it'll help keep you motivated to get through the starting period.