I am not sure what type of real estate investing you're considering, but it sounds like, with your family and busy job, you won't have a lot of time to be hands-on or personally involved. 

There are also people who swear by one method or another.   

What are the best methods to independently verify zoning and land use data to ensure compliance with local regulations?

Well, three top reasons come to mind:It will allow you to deduct their earnings on your own tax return.It is required by law for any person to whom you paid at least $600 in 2023, total.

What's the highest success percentage method to find a previous tenant's new address for this? 

Also, you don’t need a business license just to look at properties, but if you buy a bigger property, like a multi-family unit, you might need a certificate of occupancy, depending on the local rules.For business trips, most expenses can be deductible, but if it’s part personal and part business, you can only deduct the business portion.

I’m also in the early stages of exploring real estate investment, and it’s been helpful to see how others incorporate different tax strategies and asset protection methods.

Seems like the new on line marketing methods  Section 8 is the new shinny object..

Find Brandon's videos on YouTube for the "four square" method of analyzing homes and practice.

If you have the time to devote to it, direct to seller methods can be very effective, but will take ultra-patience and intensive work.