So, I am not a complete stranger to auctions, but Colorado had a public trustee system and finding reliable information on what properties were going to auction in a given week and the results of each auction was as simple as going to the county website.  

You mean there are not magical private lenders out there handing out cash to strangers for 5-6% interest because it is better than they were getting on a CD?  

I wouldn't be too welcoming of a stranger walking around my yard either.

I would never give out a lock box code to a stranger, but if it is given to you, I don't see the harm in entering.  

I find that when buying in transitional neighborhoods my race is an asset I'm less threating to the comminty and don't appear to be a stranger neighbors and the community are much more engaging.

-Brit Foshee the stranger networking matchmaker.

So far I've told her that she has a very creative idea..but as an abutter I would be concerned about having stranger in and out constantly.

If it were me, I'd check for lenders that post on the forums that have me sold on their competence and helpfulness - if they are this generous with their time with strangers, I'd imagine that I'd also be taken care of as a client. 

I'll try to answer your questions as best I can but keep in mind I'm new too.1) In my opinion, Mentor (someone who is where you are trying to get in the next 12 months) and meet 3 or 4 mentors if you can.Lawyer who will answer as many questions as you can come up with and has the heart of a teacher...also has to focus on real estate lawTax Advisor who, again, will answer as many questions as you can come up with and has the heart of a teacher...has to focus on preparing investment properties' tax returns2)  I've been talking to a lot of people (friends, acquaintances, strangers) lately and I'm just making sure they are currently investing in real estate and they are 1 or 2 steps ahead of me on the journey (own 5-20 units and self-manage).  

Why trust strangers with your most private information?