Research the different ways to invest in real estate find the one that interest you so you enjoy learning about it and consume as much as possible on that aspect; whether its single family house, small multi-family, apartments, commercial, buy and hold, fix and hold, fix and flip, local investments, out of state investments, self-managed, professionally managed etc. as soon as you have an understanding of all the major components of that type of investing start looking for a relatively low risk deal to break yourself in on to gain experience, but don't stop reading up and learning more and more about your chosen area.

(you fill in your chosen destination)  

2) Considering my experience and chosen niche(s), should I pay for a mentor?

I work with many investors from all over the US (and all over the world) who have chosen Cleveland because of the great returns and low purchase price.  

If out of state, then probably TN, GA, or other affordable market.This is a situation that I have chosen for myself and my fiance.

All the best on your chosen path.

You've chosen a great area.

It typically costs less than 1 months rent and if you've chosen the right agent, they will likely choose the right tenant so that you can mange it yourself if that's what you choose to do.

I would not worry about who is buying it for what reason.This is the same reason I do not worry about who is selling it and for what reason.What matters is that you have chosen a price acceptable to you and this person is able to give it to you.

In the US its called FIRPTA but in other countries similar rules apply.I have chosen to invest in properties in my country of origin.