For example, I'm not too sure about how to actually find good deals/distressed properties, and how to actually find appropriate property managers, CPAs, lawyers, etc.I think once I get started and inertia starts to build up, things will make more sense, but it's that first step that I'm finding difficult. 

So getting the comparables of similar properties sold might be difficult.

Which I will do now.You didn't do anything "incorrectly" I just believe you'll end up with better results this way for any insurance needs.Very difficult to shop around on your own and rate hunt. 

I know in California it is becoming more and more difficult to do so.

It is difficult to beat Utah but I see too many investors enticed by other markets like it is going to solve a problem or diversify them which I only think is partially true.

As a result, meeting the requirements to be considered  a real estate professional may proved to be difficult. 

Of course, you need a team in place and need to know how to do the math :) KNOW your numbers, if you're not sure how to do that, get to a local meeting, it's really not as difficult as many would make it seemGood luck 

in the market where multifamily cap rate is 4 to 5 even sometimes 3, it's difficult to be even breakeven.

Poor tenant quality and difficult to find a good PMI am sure there are good tenants and PM’s but it was not worth the time or effort for me

We have enough in our account and enough of an equity in our home where we could really start with any type of investment so that’s where it’s difficult to choose where to go.