@Joshua Dorkin Are you taking the approach of Web Chat Client that is XMPP compatible {a back-end XMPP server}? 

The only logical way to approach this is from the perspective of financial analysis.

If I were in this situation I might approach the problem like this:Call the tenant back and ask, "I understand your situation and, I'm really sorry.

Someone approaches you and asks to get in touch with your client list so they can offer them alternative investments. 

ive never heard that approach and if it actually works i need to start walking around my town and knock on 80% of the doors. lol I really am curious about this method.. has it worked for you in the past?

Is there any other way I should be approaching it?

I know that some use the diversity approach to buying properties so that they do not have all their eggs in one basket.

Also I was looking for advice on how to approach Real Estate Agents or other investors for help in learning the business.

There are a ton of good approaches to building a Buyer's list, and you should implement multiple strategies. 

(There may be longer fixed-rate products, I'm just not aware of them yet.)One advantage of 5-units and up, is that the appraisal will place more weight on the Income Approach.