However, I shudder at the popular suggestion to sell some of your investments for tax purposes, often coming from commission-based brokers and financial advisors.

I have worked for lenders, I've brokered, and I have worked with real and true private money and even closed loans funded by a hedge fund of a syndicate of investors.  

I could see a mix of fix n flips with some brokered deals here and there one day replacing my income.

Networking with brokers, wholesalers, and property managers in your target markets can open doors to off-market opportunities.

Also I agree buy direct through turnkey provider or broker.

Since you’re leaning toward multifamily, it might be worth connecting with local investors or brokers to see if a license is necessary for your goals.

I am a Broker in Madison, WI as well as an appraiser and self manage some rentals. 

How much do you value the broker relationship?

@Mary Lopez - second on using a mortgage broker. 

You can provide a loan modification approved by the bank to be accomplished immediately upon the purchase of the note, this, along with the waiver and request for the sale by the borrower takes the bank's liability away selling a note to a non-banking/mortgage broker type buyer.