My main issue is that I don't have a ton of time to travel to desired markets (thinking of places like Phoenix, North Carolina, Reno/Vegas, Ohio) to look at properties, network, meet potential team members, etc. 

A local RE professional should be able to provide this information to you as well.In New York, we deal with this scenario frequently and oftentimes it does not make sense to legalize ADUs because the permit process is extremely lengthy, the cost is high (sometimes $150-300K for 1 ADU unit), and the potential increase in property valuable is not worth the risk.If you already have an approved permit/plan and can get your renovation down to $80K, you may want to consider this project if the ARV is say north of $800K.** You should also look into any potential property tax increases associated with this change.

I would love to connect with you in Mighty Network.

As for vacation spots, easiest way to increase attraction is getting creative with designs, especially with paint and get GOOD photos with professional cameras.

He replied, "I don't know how you keep finding sellers willing to do that".Here is the secret sauce, know and understand the seller's motivation, ask questions, and don't be afraid to ask for the terms you want.It is more common in medium-sized multifamily where it is a business but not large enough to be professionally managed.

Brandon is professional and attentive.

After all, you're targeting a specific, high value commercial niche that's usually dominated by well connected professional brokers. 

I would do the usual things like attend a local REIA to network. 

As a result, meeting the requirements to be considered  a real estate professional may proved to be difficult. 

Besides I have no problem making new friends or growing my network.