Any idea where the information was coming from? 

Lots of them are fake buyers and are actually scammy wholesalers that have no idea what they are doing and they will waste your time.

I really have zero idea what you think I should be disappointed with my PM about.  

As you go on your real estate journeySomething I would recommend for you is this website. https://www.areavibes.com/Use this rating and classification system I have created over time to get an idea of the "Class" for the area - A class B class & so onHere is my rating & classification for each livability score.80 and above A+78/79 A76/77 A-74/75 B+72/73 B70/71 B-68/69 C+66/67 C64/65 C-60/63 D59 and below F

Which of these ideas would you try first to grow your deal flow or funding network?

Do you have an idea of the type of property you want to buy and a price range?

It would be a good idea to assess your tolerance to risk and then plan something like that, but using a heloc is going to be around 9-11% in this market so to pay something off with lower interest rate to borrow more might not make much sense.

Any other ideas on how to ensure our funds are protected? 

Here is the link to the calendar for you to get an idea: https://www.alamoreia.org/Calendar.aspxThere is an annual fee to become a member of a REIA, but you don’t need to be a member to attend certain events.

The idea of flexible hours can quickly turn into 24/7 availability.Solution: Create a routine, time-block tasks, and set clear boundaries.