For most, this isn't a realistic option so they update some of the most important regions themselves and copy the data from other providers where they don't have coverage.This is a big problem with these big consumer-grade real estate analytics platforms—you don't really know the source of that data, its frequency, etc.

We used to buy a lot of foreclosures back in the day but that source has long dried up.

They are the source.

-  we use various sources (Web, Facebook, click funnels, etc. to fill up the PONDS for our investors and wholesales to fish from.).  

Instead I want to take advantage of the opportunity I have of living rent free to invest my time and money in STR's to hopefully build that portfolio up and eventually make that my main source of income (I understand that will take time).

First of all @Diana Teng, have you ever gone to a restaurant and asked "is the food here worth buying?". 

The process seems daunting and overwhelming, and I am not confident I will put the time in to talk to sources, analyze, and find properties for investing purposes.

Unlike banks, which offer limited loan options, brokers have access to a wide network of lenders, including niche and non-traditional financing sources.Here’s what they do:Assess your financial situation to determine your borrowing power.Compare multiple loan products to find the most favorable terms.Negotiate rates and terms with lenders on your behalf.Guide you through the application process, ensuring you meet all requirements.Example: Suppose you have a lower credit score or unconventional income sources.

And you still have $70,000 to go buy a single-family home or multifamily home, and now that you're on a bunch of wholesale lists where you can source deals well under market value it is easier to find good deals. 

Market forces are pushing and pulling but not a source of anything breaking.