Obviously this is during your analysis phase and I would think you would get your numbers validated by professionals.

Would like to connect with local Real Estate professionals and investors in the area before I return to California this weekend.

Each professional should have at least 15 years or more of experience in the area because I want to speak to those who have been in the game for a while and have extreme knowledge of where the area is going. 

What I learn from Bigger Pocket and my daily work life as an acquisition/contract professional, always put a "subject to"/ exit clause to your agreement. say for example subject to his performance or ROI of mentorship.

When an offer is accepted take the paperwork to a title company to open escrow, put down earnest money, inspect the trio and title reports, get the professional inspections you’d like to have done, negotiate the deal if necessary from your due diligence, make sure your financing is in place, and then close on the deal at the scheduled closing time.Take the keys and then get to work.

Readers are advised to seek professional advice. 

Connect with wholesalers, real estate agents, and other real estate professionals so that you can stay top of mind with them when they do hear of a good deal.

I am not fearful when I do my job but I do use professionals where professional skills are called for.

Because I'm new to the game, and I'd rather have a professional draft up a 30 page operating agreement that covers many things beginners don't know about legally.

and it puts wholesalers in the used car salesmen category not a professional or providing a service the only service they provide is to make money for themselves.. which you can do being an agent.. or better yet be a true investor just buy the house do something to it and resell it..