I found out pretty quick my skills from years of running LTR didn't translate to STR and had to learn a whole new set of skills (some of which I already had from a career working with the public).  

I work with agents who know my buying criteria, and they bring deals to me before they hit the public market.

Does this not suggest that I can opt for the LLC (that holds only public securities - ie, is passive/not a real business) not to be considered a partnership?

The owner was motivated due to personal circumstances and wanted to avoid the hassle of listing the property publicly.

Another example of this is Newark, extremely strict laws making land lording a second job.When finding the right area to invest, towns with more lenient land lording laws and proximity to public transportation tend to be a receipt for success.  

I want to become really good at analyzing deals, and determine the markets I should focus on.Are there any resources aside from this forum (books, journals, news publications, podcasts) that you recommend I use to learn more?

Make sure they know you plan to publicly point out to the local newspapers, Mayor's Office, and anyone who will be campaigning against them, just how stupid and lazy they are. 

I prefer public comments here before you send a direct message, though. 

We do want to settle in a little bit here while continuing to do our homework, but hope to get into something in the next 6-12 months.With the way interest rates are looking now and what little I see on public listings, I think a smaller multi-family that needs a little rehab would be the best bet. 

Your license is part of the public record, so sooner or later, your employer will find out if you're licensed.