I’ve started doing my research on real estate, but I’m struggling to figure out how I can learn how to analyze deals well, and get the right amount of data to make an intelligent decision.

As @Natalie Schanne mentioned, I'm guessing they might utilize the Opendoor/Offerpad model offering artificially high prices minus large fees/seller concessions. 

@Jorge RuizThat is a matter of opinion, and your read on the future growth or demise, currently i am a bit pessimistic on the market, cycles tend to be approx 9 years, and we are in year 9, the stock market is at an all time high (artificially inflated,IMO) and consumer confidence is quite high,  consumer debt is rising, again, and banks are getting loose, home buyer demand is high, and Charles Schwab is having a huge influx of new brokerage accounts.

So if you artificially try to keep down expenses you end up with deferred maintenance which, in many cases, can lead to premature cap-ex expenses.  

He then said that his network of intelligent individuals know a lot of RE and definitely could assist me in meeting my objective.

Kudos, for wanting to educate yourself, and become financially intelligent!

Your marriage has ended and it appears a new chance is starting, not only personally (Fiance) but in investing.I can't speak intelligently about the Bay area market, but I can say that if you have kids and they are living with you, that should be your first priority.

DEFINITELY make sure you look into the local regulations, are able to talk intelligently about business insurance (and obtain it when you get a unit), and otherwise generally operate in a wise and lawful manner.  

If you're interested in stocks and bonds, bogleheads guide to investing, the intelligent investor, etc. 

Im sitting here drinking my coffee, doing some reading on the forums, and would like to get some ideas in regards to building a solid team from those of you with experience in 'Buy-n-hold".I am a pretty handy guy, but I do not want to be so involved in that process that I am committing my most precious time, time spent with my family, to being stuck rehabbing/repairing things.I am not looking to self manage my future properties, do my own legal work, and although I am financially more intelligent than your average Joe, I would like to have some one who professionally does it/ knows the loopholes/etc.