However, I would really like to be educated about the opportunity to do this, but possibly in other close neighboring cities.  2) If short-term rentals aren't a possibility, would like to invest in single or multi-family for long-term rentals.  

What these $20 - 40k “mentorship’s” sell is a SHORTCUT, but it does NOT work because the PRIMARY real estate education and knowledge MUST be there in order to be able to implement and strategy or tactic correctly, at the correct time, and under the correct conditions.  

EDUCATE YOURSELF - yes, it will take time, but will lead to a selection that better meets your expectations & avoids potentially costly surprises!

I'm currently in the option period with it ending on Monday so I need to make an educated decision by then.

Bigger Pockets is a great place for education and networking. 

They used to have a lot of great education, but haven't seen those ads lately.

@Zach Lemaster I think that is a great point; we are getting a phenomenal education along the way, and it is a heck of a lot cheaper than college. 

Collaboration, innovation, and ongoing education will give anyone navigating this market a significant advantage.Let me know your thoughts!

You will get pitched, but good coaches want you to get some reps first or else they aren't really coaching you, they are educating you and you can do that part for free.

So most agents are only putting about half of that $12k in their pocket, and out of that $6k they have to cover all of their operating expenses: licensing fees, MLS/ Realtor Association fees, continuing education classes to stay compliant with licensing requirements, monthly "desk" fees/ technology fees to their brokerage, health insurance for themselves and their family, errors and omissions insurance (required), marketing, car, car insurance, gas, clothes, computer/ software, cell phone, closing gifts, signs, photography, staging if they offer that, etc.