I've never worked with an investor friendly agent so I'm just looking for the most efficient way to utilize them if we decide to work together.

It sounds like you already have a great foundation with your rental and BRRR experience in the UK, and you'll find many similarities in the US market but also a few key differences.For location, I’d suggest looking into markets with strong population growth, economic stability, and landlord-friendly regulations.

Would love to connect with local investor friendly agents / agents who have their own investment properties. 

I currently manage 20 properties for family and friends in Central Florida.

They are investor friendly.

Renter friendly additions such as vinyl plank flooring.

I also have a couple of California friends who invest in Atlanta.

Just like many people ask about real estate friendly CPAs or investor friendly agents, I would be looking for experienced loan officers who also "buy what they sell". 

In every state I've wholesaled, friends have wholesaled we've never needed to use a dime to pay for a deal.

I would connect with some investor friendly agents and if they're experienced, they should be able to provide insights from an investor perspective regarding the target market since they have done so with tons of past clients.