Theres a website called plexerr.com that pulls comps and exports to CSV.

I'm unsure if they lend on new builds or not, they do have a website where you can set a virtual meeting with them.https://www.goodfaithfund.com/

She was very pleasant and explained that their website doesn’t work, which we thought was a bit unusual.

I was just on their website looking at the permit process:CityofSac-STR PermitLooks like 90 days max until you get a conditional use permit but still reading as it seems a little unclear:A short-term vacation rental may operate from a location that is not the operator's primary residence for a total of 90 days in a calendar year.

As you begin your REI journey here is one tip I have for you:Use this website as you are trying to narrow down the places you want to invest in. https://www.areavibes.com/Its awesome because it gives you a "total livability score" & you can compare different zip codes & streets to others. 

Once the property is on the MLS, it is visible through any number of consumer websites.  

Spent a minute on their website and this in particular stood out to me as a red flag.

This is not my area of expertise, so wise people on this website will likely tell me not to venture into this!  

A coworker mentioned they learned how to invest in real estate using the Bigger Pockets website so I decided to check it out to see what it was all about.

Glad to hear the website postings can be a legit source for a deal.