I think it's generally because I don't have a real estate background or any connections, maybe just because I'm pretty much "nobody."

You can try to attend virtual events, many real estate meetups and events offer virtual options.

However licensed PA Real Estate Agent (12 Years) perhaps I can provide a little insight?

Or you go north, which makes you a lot more remote, far away from the next Home Depot, and a long drive for everyone, but opens you up the snowmobile and ice fishing season.IMO the most important thing is to buy quality real estate, no matter how you rent it.

We're primarily focused on real estate finance at this point rather than rentals and flips, but we still occasionally flip when an excellent opportunity pops up.

Any recommendations when it comes to: - Real estate agents we should work with? 

There are two requirements to claim REP status1) 750 Hours2) You spend more time on real estate than other activities such as your W-2 Job or BusinessYou want to work with a tax professional who will be able to advise you on what hours count and what hours do not count.Furthermore, the CPA may have a nice worksheet that you can use to help you document your hours.Best of luck!

I've been investing in real estate for 30 years. 

How does everyone feel about investing in Oklahoma? I would love to know!

Real estate is slower to get into so I would first look to switch job wise and see if you can get a a higher paying attorney job.