After that's under control, focus on increasing income through additional work at your current job, taking on a side hustle, or finding ways to increase income on your existing rental.At the same time, educate yourself.

I can also offer some insight into where you can find and create partnerships.

Sounds like you're on the right track for areas to find deals.

I'd like to invest more in that area, but it's much more expensive and harder to find deals.  

Without a shop, you can just say, “Here’s where you can find the toy” and skip the warnings.2.

I tried for months to find a lender for MF (10+ unit) before connecting with a broker. 

@John Perkins Help you find lenders that can increase your profitability on your projects and perhaps help you scale!

Find someone in the neighborhood of your building to help you out.

I want to be able to find potential markets/listings nationally based on the return. 

I fairly positive that wont work, i have read that contacting mortgage brokers is the best way to go if you can find one.