They should be easy to find with an internet search. 

Do you check Landlord references?

They are 100% correct.The downside sometimes to forums is people have a superman complex and get the impression real estate is easy as they think everyone is doing it and just jump in without the knowledge or expertise.

If they are wanting an even more hands-on approach, then i would refer them out.

Another option if you're looking for something with higher yield than index funds, that's hands off, and will teach you a lot about real estate investing without having to do it yourself could be investing in syndications which is referred to in the book Jonathan recommended.

     It works fantastic for me, and it is very easy to learn. 

.- The TL states that those are technically the team's leads and I will owe the 20% if they convert within the year since I was given training (which I was not), lender referal (which was forced on me by the TL even though I work with my own lenders for my clients).Is the above statement true/legal/valid?

I'm new here so may not have a full view but the overall climate seems to be-anything to make a deal-ridiculous financing, leverage the home you life in-who cares where it is located it will be easy to rent/manage from hours away-don't be gracious with your tenants and housekeepersMy guess is a tilt toward young and not financially stable which is awesome if remaining sensible. 

I think people forget the risk involved with all the guru's making it seems easy in their "classes" and it's good that a deal might be a bit scary.

Luckily, I did not include this unit in my underwriting when purchasing, so the survival of this property is not contingent on this situation.Continuing to optimize for management of the building when I move out, like moving everyone to online rent payments or adding remote accessible security cameras.Exploring opportunities to expand my portfolio—I've begun my hunt for my next 3 to 4-unit building to house hack, ideally in Lake View, North Center, or Ravenswood.This year taught me that real estate investing isn’t easy, but it’s undoubtedly worth it.