Like @Sarah Kensinger said, I would surround yourself with like-minded people that have had success in the real estate industry to motivate you and teach you things you may not know! 

I've been watching YouTube videos, reading, listening to podcasts.   A couple of investors said that it was important that homeowners had a certain amount of equity before they make an offer using the subject to finan...

When it comes time to actually invest, you will typically be required to show some sort of verification - either a signed financial statement if you meet the requirement on net worth, or income tax returns if you meet the requirement on income.  

So, the town of Ithaca (which is a sort of donut surrounding downtown) passed restrictions on STRs a few years ago.

@Bob Asad, that is sort of right. 

etc... are there professionals who specialize in this sort of deal, talking to the bank, etc... a realtor or lawyer or someone with the right connections to the bank? 

I hope I can get some advice/motivation to get started!

Wife is from Baton Rouge but her parents are moving, we want to keep some sort of connection to the area but doesn't look like having a duplex rental that we can rent out for cash flow is possible.We were even thinking about a triplex and keeping one empty so we could use it when we come and visit but again the insurance is upsetting

If you're likable and keep showing up it shows the motivation. 

What about asking if the seller is motivated/interested to sell?