Interview multiple Realtors, do not go with first referral. 

Interview with brokers that offer part time?

Regardless of how you find them, try to interview at least three managers1.

I don't do formal background checks and my PM interviews people. 

Interview a lot, but, to a certain extent, have a backup option ready to call when your first choice ends up being the wrong choice.Investors: as noted, if it isn't going to be some form of marketing, it is going to be through existing network and referrals.  

When we originally talked (as I interviewed him) he wanted to leave after December as the football season would be done and he was leaving school.

,Are there specific skills, attributes and/or red flags I should look for when interviewing a new lender?

A couple good ways to find good CPAs to interview is by networking with other park owners in your state.

For sure I would interview KW, but also a local indy broker, and maybe a big franchise player in your area.Some questions to ask are:1. 

I’d recommend not quitting your day job until 1) you have your license and 2) you’ve interviewed several brokerages to work for.