Some will assist with down payments or closing costs and only require you watch some videos to become a better informed buyer, so win-win.

I'd imagine that it is quite location specific as well, so I'd suggest poking around a bit on HipCamp as if you were a camper, and see what's around you. 

Maybe it might be different in your market, but at least here in CA, no real estate agent is going to refer  a client slow poke big bank unless it’s specialized bank offering a specific program that caters to the needs to the borrower.  

Do you have a specific market in mind for your first property?

I always make sure that the draws are commensurate with the amount of work (and specifically the trade) performed to date.

I heard a guy on Bigger Pockets video give a formula to use to consider if you should sell: If your equity is more than 7 years of cash flow, then you may want to consider selling to get your equity out. 

Newbie here- I haven't identified any specific assets yet but I'm looking at 4plex or smaller.

Your worst-case scenario (not specific to MA) would be having to sue to get them out as a holdover, but this is really reserved for worst-choice scenarios when owners choose the first renter or don't do any due diligence.

Set up a clear scope of work and schedule regular video check-ins with photo updates.

BP also provides state-specific leases to pro members.