You can check out this group to know who the players are.

Check out www.LogicalPM.com or DM us

Check out this rug.

I just looked at my calendar from this past summer, and there were zero check ins or check outs on Saturdays. 

As a 3rd-party real estate consultant that has no skin in the game other than what I charge, I provide exactly what you've described—unbiased, no-nonsense, and straightforward advice.

It is offered through Awesome REI-Patrick Riddle(another awesome team and distant Mentor of mind) I enjoy their style of teaching because of their honest, straight-forward, and experienced no fluff.

She said she has requested a check out of her 401K to cover rent but doesn't know when the check will arrive.

You better check out your legal situation, rights and obligations before you make a very expensive mistake!

Check out the chart showing the fast rent growth and declining rent growth cities, which could help inform your decision on growth markets. 

I don't know anything about Goodegg, but while you're vetting sponsors, check out Gray Capital, I'm totally unbiased but I hear they are pretty good ;)