I've consumed countless books related to the topic and I've shaped my mind by various sources, while trying to avoid gurus without a track record. 

I was going to, anyways, but I feel better about getting started after reading countless posts covering various topics and attending a few webinars. 

(It’s the market I know best and where I have countless connections with other investors, agents, family, etc.)

You can spend countless hours watching podcasts, reading books, going to events, etc and spend 6 mos "learning" before buying your first deal ------ only to realize you're still going to make all the mistakes! 

As a lawyer I have seen countless "partnerships" blow up over the years. 

I'm still relatively new to the Columbus area and REI, so I still have to learn where the best/upcoming neighborhoods are located.Thank you everyone for your countless posts, I look forward to learning more!

Countless people get too drunk sometimes but it doesn't mean they're an alcoholic.

Other than my countless hours on youtube and reading about RE, I have no prior experience. 

I have talked to them countless times on the phone, but have never met them. 

The other way it will go, and in my opinion it sounds like this will be the route they go, they will not accept the way you manage because they were so used to getting away with not paying rent and I'm sure countless of other things and you will have to give them 30 days notice or start the eviction process is they wont leave.