facebook marketplace is always worth a scan.

I think contractors are everywhere, literally drive around or do a google or facebook search and vet them.

We have have been lucky to get all our business on furnished finder, Nurse facebook groups, and also listing on airbnb for 30 day+ stays for the one we do not owner occupy.

Is there a forum, on Facebook or elsewhere, where I can learn about the conditions of the real estate market in Mississippi ( I realize that each county has its individual situation, to a degree) and ask questions? 

A more general observation on this topic, intended for you and any future readers - find out from the agency that has control over this area exactly what it takes to LOSE grandfathered status.

He said he was working with them to get that cleared up and that he would keep us posted on the file status. 

The 30% of information that you found useful that you spent an entire weekend to learn and $350 could have been spent researching online and asking questions on here and facebook groups in less time for free. 

You do need to disclose the lead status when you sell it though.

Is it just for the RE status?

You can also find real estate investing groups through meetup.com, facebook, or a Google search.