You want to be careful that you don't do any "steering". 

As you all have pointed out that doesn't seem to be the case here.I guess their claim is that this Custodian in the middle has the power to step in and start selling assets to pay back lenders if/when they go over their LTV, but yeah, that's just not what I've learned from the books I've read (and what you all are verifying here.)I'll be steering clear of these types of deals. 

Likewise, increasing loan rates and rising home prices have made housing unaffordable for many, steering lots of potential home buyers back into rentals. 

I have sold a number of homes on the MLS and the realtors don't like that I make them put that in the notes, but lets face it, although realtors are not suppose to "steer" people to houses, for a grand they all do.

This will take you to site that has a clickable map and when you click on Ohio, you will find 8 different options for you to meet other investors in the area and learn as much as you can about investing from other investors in your area who are actually successful and can steer you in the right direction.

BUT...it has gotten in my head that a real estate mentor will try to take advantage of me, try to push me into certain non favorable deals, take my money or somehow not steering me in the right direction.Do you, BP out there, have tips on how to vet or approach mentors?

I have the number for Castlerock but I am looking to be steered in the right direction for procedure so I dont let my rookie mind burn me before I get started.

Any areas that you concentrate on or steer clear of?

Basically, in my opinion (which is not an attorneys opinion as I am not an attorney) your friend should steer clear.

The good agents, the few that are out there are steering their clients away from sfr investing and duplexes which is too close to a sfr, and 4plexes that are popping up all over now for sale with 3 to 4 cap rates.