Using a local real estate lawyer is useful and cheap.

Perhaps check with a local attorney before proceeding.I realise I left some stuff out in the beginning, but the whole situation in general is just pretty wild.

I would like to speak with local investors, real estate agents, property managers, lenders, etc. from the area.

I would recommend that you get out to local meetup events, as that is where you will make the really deep connections to help you get rolling. 

Accessibility and local knowledge above everything else. 

You have some good comments above but I would also suggest to try some local real estate meetup groups.

Not sure which markets you're considering, but if you set your sights on the coast I can help with local lenders, attorneys, tax pros, etc. 

Are you local to Richmond? 

Your property taxes will also be higher as you can't use the home owner's grant.There might be local RE meet ups in Vancouver area where you can go and listen to what others have to say. 

Go to small local/regional banks NOT national ones.