These are professionals with additional training and a stricter code of ethics.

Wasn't for me.I'm not affiliated with the company, although their founder @Brandon Hall is a colleague and a friend of mine. 

I reached out to the individual marketing the deal to schedule a property viewing, but they’re asking for proof of funds (which I expected) and a signed purchase agreement or LOI.Is this normal?

They all have yards and a driveway , its not like living in an apartment .   

A single-family home or small multi-unit property can be a great way to dip your toes in the water.Build a Team: Even if you’re planning to handle most things yourself, having a good real estate agent, property manager (if needed), and a reliable handyman can make life so much easier.Learn the Local Laws: Pensacola is pretty investor-friendly, but it’s always good to know local zoning laws and short-term rental regulations if you’re thinking about Airbnb or VRBO.Run the Numbers: Make sure you’re clear on the property’s cash flow potential.

After a couple years and a couple different programs I can confidently say skip them all except Vena Jones Cox's the Guru Manifesto. 

Are you able to share your preferred list of pre-qualifying questions when talking to sellers and a list for buyers?

If I find out where they live next, I'll send them my contractor's bill and a small claims court paperwork.

But day trading is a job at best and a nightmare at worst. 

From a risk point of view, there is no real middle class and a very small upper class.