Most leads will be very inexperienced investors that will need a lot of hand-holding. 

I suspect many inexperienced investors, that do not understand the full cost of buy n hold, are under calculating long-term costs and may not even realize that they are purchasing a cash flow negative house.  1% properties have not been found on MLS here since maybe 2013.  50% rule would show every purchase at large negative cash flow (but at our rent point the 50% rule is too conservative).I look for value adds that reduce my investment amount and provide instant sweat equity. 

I'm too inexperienced to even consider this but I just wondered how it works. 

This is a great venue but I sincerely hope the admins take heed to all the bigoted and discriminatory comments expressed by inexperienced investors.

First, get a different real estate agent, you are not obligated to stick with this particular agent( maybe they are too inexperienced in presenting offers).

What would you recommend as a starting path to rental property investing for an inexperienced beginner in CA? 

I buy the Zinus 12 inch green tea from Zinus on amazon. 

I highly agree on that financing should not stop one from investing :)I hope and I am pretty certain that the income will go back to pre-covid level within 5months, where would you recommend to look for private money lenders, or partners who are willing to work with inexperienced investors?

Hello,Need a little advice as I’m still inexperienced in real estate investing.

Look to those who have seen these tea leaves before, or ones similar to it.