Hi Shelby,To determine rental prices and demand in a neighborhood, start by researching online listings on platforms like Zillow, Rent.com, and Craigslist to compare similar properties. 

If I get my sales agent license, I will need a broker sponsor.

I started reading online about normal wholesaling (not virtual).

In a dense area, such as in-town (city, dense suburb, etc) you should be able to find sales within a half mile. 

And we're talking sales MONTHS old.

If I am self managing my portfolio, what do I need to check/confirm, and what easily available tools are at my disposal (online, other) to help me do this? 

If you do not find success there, there are some online companies like SpaceJoy, Decorilla, Havenly etc.

Face-to-face connections can quickly build trust and often lead to referrals.2.Online Groups & Forums:Utilize Facebook groups, LinkedIn communities, and other local online networks dedicated to real estate investing.

Most investors who take this route are not short-term investors and do not enter the investment with a timeline for sale. 

There are any number of Real Estate schools available to you, so choose the one that compliments your learning style, whether that be online or in person or a hybrid.