We would love to connect with investors, as well as investor-friendly realtors and property managers in the northern Alabama region.Any insights into the local market or recommendations for neighborhoods to explore further would be greatly appreciated.

It's the same thing when you put your info on sites like Zillow, or Redfin looking for a home.You are only going to get the realtors or lenders who are signed up with the website.

However, seeing as though I have already sourced the deal myself, would it still be in my best interest to use a realtor for this transaction if it works out? 

It's against the law in some jurisdictions (OR, WA, CA and others) to even approach someone in a distressed situation unless you are an attorney, a realtor, or a registered "Distressed Property Counselor" and you can't benefit by buying or wholesaling the property.Equity Skimming and related penalties of sentencing are detailed in 12 United States Code USC Section 1715Z-19.

You can learn to do this independently or get a rockstar REALTOR to lead the way.

Ramping up this year but my wife and I ultimately plan to move to Georgia in 2027 (we already have a realtor for the curious). 

I am a Realtor in NEPA.

Your best bet is to ask for referrals from professionals in the space: realtors, other investors, this forum, FB groups, etc.

It is hard but as a realtor I pay attention to prices throughout the year so that I have an idea of whether or not it is a "real" discount.

Your local Investor a Realtor here!