Some people are growth-minded, which means they are willing to help for a low cost, or not much compensation knowing that the more conversations they have will lead to more clients.

My ideal location would currently actually be Augusta, GA because I really want to start somewhere with a very low crime rate. 

It makes less and less sense in a market with low inventory and high interest rates.

Bought house in 2020, so instant cash flow given the low rate and price.

I can though pick out a disgruntled low level Employee though or a Shill/Troll. 

Less than 10 minutes and they are done.Self Managed, Low Volume - these folks collect the same rent every month, have minimal expenses beyond their mortgage and find it very easy to collect the few documents they have to report it. 

If you want low, safe returns that are truly passive, invest in the stock market.  

I know I need to get a credit card and keep my utilization ratio low, but I wouldn't know much about the process of actually receiving a conventional loan from a bank or any type of loan.

It is harder to find good information if the forum is cluttered with low value information. 

I think they contain solid information and will help lay a good foundation as a beginner (Haha, I'm completely new to real estate as well, btw)I'm also going to be reading the following books, and hopefully I can finish all by the end of this month:1) The ABCs of Property Management2) The Advanced Guide to Real Estate Investing3) Long-Distance Real Estate Investing How to Buy, Rehab, and Manage Out-of-State Rental Properties (this might be the most important one to me personally)4) The Book on Investing in Real Estate with No (and Low) Money DownIn addition to reading, I'm consuming crazy amounts of youtube videos, and I'recommend you do this as well.