Before you pull the trigger on anything I would get some training or find a mentor in your area willing to show you the ropes. 

How important is finding a mentor in this field, and what is the best way to connect with experienced professionals who can provide guidance and support?

I want to take this as seriously as possible so in my case, is this worth it, or is paying for a coach/mentor unnecessary? 

If you have sat in on Ari Newman's "How to Use the Financial Calculator to Structure Better Deals" training session, what feedback can you provide?

When I managed 150+ units for my mentor, we accompanied every rental and sale showing, regardless of whether the other side was accompanied by a licensed agent.

Do you mentor new investors?

Asking for a mentor without having anything to give3.

I have plenty to learn and hope to find mentors that are willing to help. 

Oh, and the rogue syndicator who took advantage of us all was a darling of theirs (LU's) only a year before he "broke bad", and had subscribers from some of the long-time, experienced passive investors in the group, including a mentor or two and the executive vice president, herself! 

Finding a local mentor who isn't selling you something would be a very good idea.