Going from home, to not dorming at college, to still living at home (all in the middle of COVID), to then being a home-owner, seems like I am missing out on the social aspect of living arrangements, if that makes sense.  

I need to populate the platform with enough local users in order to achieve "critical mass" so it can begin functioning at a high level. 

I definitely need to work on the local market knowledge aspect 

Before you look for a mentor and get into flipping, I think you and your partner should do some serious critical thinking about where you want to be and what you want your life to look like in 10+ years.

If you're a single mom with student loans, a car payment, and living paycheck-to-paycheck, then $20,000 would be devastating and a reserve is critical.

All important aspects that allow more eyes to view the property.Are the two showings from the agent you have it listed with or other agents that showed it? 

@Adam David GraningNobody yet pointed out this critical caveat: even if the property is placed in service by 12/31, you will likely need to pass "material participation" test in order to benefit from your losses.

I have solely funded every aspect of the home with the exception of $33k that he brought for acquisition and closing costs.

Understanding the routing of electric, ducts, plumbing, identifying load bearing walls, asbestos, LBP, etc. is all critical for finding a good rehab candidate.Good luck out there!

More is better, but not critical.