I have been learning how the process works and there are a lot of resources for how to interview a sponsor and review the deal, but how do you initially access the deals to review?

It should be pretty accurate - high level data sites are not always going to be perfect, but should always be directionally correct and AirDNA has a pretty strong track record. 

You are not even scooping your initial investment so your cash on cash return is negative.

Areas near downtown Ventura or the college (Ventura College) are worth exploring for strong tenant demand.

Tax Savings:While it’s true that the stock market has been strong, real estate offers unique tax advantages that aren’t available with other asset classes.

How strong is the demand for mid-term in Denver?

I initially got a variable loan.

Trying to match the color that is already on the wall is just about impossible, even with left over paint from the initial painting.

But, they will be in challenging parts of town where realistically you do not want to own property and your long-run returns will under-perform.I'd encourage you to find a balance of sub-market growth, nearby employment, strong income, and only then a good rent-to-value ratio. 

They didn't extend loan maturities because they were looking out for borrowers--and the moment they feel the market is strong enough for them to liquidate the asset they will foreclose and/or force a sale to recover as much principal as they can.