Can you guide me in the right direction on how u found the list and were u successful?

I can find a nugget of information that guides me to understand where we are in an interest rate or buy/sell cycle. 

If you're willing to educate yourself and have the personality for dealing with difficult situations, then it may be a good choice.Do yourself a favor: buy "Every Landlord's Legal Guide" by NOLO.

I don't understand how people are willing to drop $50K-100K or more on a property, but think that making a trip or 2 or 6 out to meet people and look at properties in person is too much of a hassle. 

Start with BiggerPockets Ultimate Beginners Guide (free).

Note that is 10 miles round trip.  

Most likely when seasoned professionals started out, they were guided and mentored by people who were levels ahead of them.

What other work do I have to put in on my end before looking for some sort of mentor to guide me through this while also making a little bit of profit for the both of us?

You could raise your rates by $1 a night if you don't want it to impact your cashflow.As for linens not on beds: imagine a family packing for a vacation and cramming everything in a car, dealing with screaming kids on the trip, dealing with nightmare traffic and finally getting to the place and unpack all the crap. 

We specialize in working with real estate investors, and I’m confident we could help guide you through this transition if you're considering it.Feel free to shoot me a text or email, and we can discuss how to support your goals and get you started on this new path.Best,Matt