I also have a close connection with an experienced developer and is willing to help mentor/guide me through looking at homes and answering my questions.

It's great to have you here.Here are some recommendations for you:Find and connect with other BP members that are in your area: http://www.biggerpockets.com/m...Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you: http://www.biggerpockets.com/a...Read Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/r...Check out BP Money Podcast: https://www.biggerpockets.com/..

They need to be your guide through the process.  

I recently devoured the book "How to Invest in Real Estate: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide" recently...which led me to discovering this community...which is leading me to thinking about my next chapter in life.

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

Please DM me and I will help guide you on what works best.   

This answer will guide your next move.  

Start by reading the Ultimate Real Estate Investing Guide: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides/ultimate-real-estate-investing-guide/introduction2.

Note that many of the solutions out there offer 30 minute to an hour guided demos with a sales person/tech person.  

I'd love to connect with someone trustworthy, honest, who knows the market, and would be able to guide me step by step until closing, and even finding the right tenants.