How often do you use it personally or let friends/relatives stay? 

This post does not create a CPA-Client relationship.

My professional background is data science / analytics, which means analyzing cash flows will probably come more naturally than building relationships, which apparently, is how one finds deals worth making.Are there meetups in these areas I should attend (digitally at first, presumably)? 

Keep it short and respectful of their time, and offer to meet in person if they’re open to it.Join Tacoma-specific Facebook groups.

Fewer still actually show-up to deliver the value in-person. 

For me personally, it was worth making the switch because of how much money I stood to save and the flexibility to run things the way I saw best fit.

Look into DSCR loans, which use rental income for qualification, allowing you to scale without relying on personal income.

You can probably meet him in person if you attend the next HH.

I will be honest and let you know that your agent should be sending you personalized deal flow and providing numbers on why they think it's a great deal.

Are you buying the property in your personal name or LLC?