I got the same rate that I would get on any direct booking since they could see the listed price online.

Connecting with local real estate investor groups, attending meetups and conferences, either in person or online, can give you advice + support as well!

As mentioned no need to hire a private investigator just use an online service to do a background check.

Check out other online guides available here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides3.

Have they spent time learning about your goals and objectives with investing?

I don't know your criteria for a good deal, but if you're strictly looking on market for a quad in Raleigh you likely won't find one in the near future that meets what you're looking for.I have been looking in both Raleigh and Charlotte for the past few months and I barely came across any good deals at least online.

Go to Etsy and search for "rental property tracker," and you will find hundreds of nice spreadsheets to track 10-20 rentals, usually for under $10.Software has extremely helpful features like online payments, marketing syndication (click a button, and your property is advertised on multiple sites), electronic document review/signing, maintenance tracking, and owner reports.

Check out other online guides available here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides3.

If not from CT and there's any networking events or groups online - id love to hear which groups you recommend/ webinars . lastly, any advice on how to properly approach investing professionals as a beginner - would be greatly appreciated. 

Use an online mortgage calculator to get an amortization schedule and present it with the offer.