I'm interested in picking your brain on the PM side of things myself.

Had one all picked out in town, but the seller just couldn't come around to giving me a price.

As you said, if you want to work with a General Contractor, you must do your due diligence -- but, if you screw up and pick the wrong guy, the downside is typically just some lost time and some headaches.On the other hand, when entering an equity partnership with a General Contractor, the risk is much, much higher. 

Not sure I'd pick this one for my first deal if I was you.

Marine Palamutyan - Are you strongly against sharing your kitchen / laundry with other cool professionals like you that you pick and interview?

Absolutely pick up your license if you are interested,  and will learn lots as you get started

But since I don't go pick it up, and don't give tenants my address, it doesn't work too well.

Many guests book within only a couple of weeks until their trip so things may pick up there. 

I just recently got licensed as a Real Estate Appraisal Assistant/Trainee and I am currently looking for a mentor to become an apprentice under.

Try calling them everyday until they pick your call and ask you not to call them again.