Two things were immensely helpful initially, and have been incredibly helpful since renting in July. 1) By complete dumb-look, I ran across a handyman who's been absolutely spectacular.  2) My real estate agent has be unbelievable, and proactively, helpful in terms of offering advice, making intros, etc.

Any info you can provide would be immensely helpful, Google is failing me thus far since my situation is so specific.

Bigger Pockets podcasts and forums have been immensely helpful.

Just starting out myself would appreciate the help immensely 

He said they seemed to be operating from an voice-over-internet phone, had an African accent, requested a $1500 up-front fee deposited to a personal account and didn't know how to answer the question of points charged for the loan.For me, it's safe to say, I'm avoiding them.

I am a 19 year old African american male from Brooklyn, New York.

I too am super new to the community have been already found it to be an immensely helpful resource for connecting with local like-minded people in my area (Santa Barbara) and nearby cities.

Any advice will be immensely appreciated!!!!

Any advice for helping me take my very first steps would be immensely appreciated.                      

Brew City REI is a private, sort of 'grass roots' local real estate club of like minded, active investors sharing knowledge, tips and deals---Along with Bigger Pockets, I think that this group would help you immensely.