Title examiners pull these and include with their reports. 

If the docs all look legit (examine them carefully!)

Mistakes in the search and examination of title, the preparation of the commitment and closing of the transaction happen every day due to inexperience, rush to satisfy demands to close and yes negligence, which generally is not fraud. 

After examining 47 appraisals (supplied by RTR on their recent deals) and running some data analysis (plus plotting that data on a Google map), I have somewhat of high confidence that the valuations should be 375k+ ...

You're better off examining the market at a neighborhood level for value and rents as they can fluctuate by the block.

I am not very tech smart, and have not quite pulled the trigger on a short term rental yet (lack of tech knowledge is one of the things holding me back), but this helps ease the nerves a little.

I think a big part of being an investor is always being willing to examine your assumptions.

I'd start by examining your after-tax income.  

I've been wracking my brain on how to not only find a mentor to guide me, but how I can provide them value as well.

You might also consider a Roth 401k that would be funded with after tax dollars and earnings would grow tax free.Your best bet is to consult a tax advisor who can examine your individual situation and give you the information necessary to make an informed decision.Let me know if I can be of any further assistance.Ed