This is a two-way interview, so have a short list of questions to ask the mentor (What books do you recommend I read to gain a better understanding?

I HIGHLY recommend you connect with a local expert like @Josh Green, who practices what he preaches.

Any recommendations on companies that provide these services?

I would recommend that you go to the top of this page and click on FIND AN AGENT.

Hello Bigger pockets community, I'm brand new to the real estate game and recently purchased my 1st property. Looking to connect with real estate professional who are experts/experienced in investment rental propertie...

Great job recognizing an opportunity to do creative finance and reaching out to the community for help.My recommendation to figuring out what to offer is by simply talking to the owner and asking him what he needs to support his family and be comfortable.

They are usually posted on meetup.com or local facebook groups which I also recommend joining. 

If you're considering a significant investment in smart locks, I strongly recommend exploring alternative options that prioritize both convenience and reliability.

For the most accurate and detailed information, it's recommended to refer to local real estate listings and market reports or consult with real estate professionals who are active in these areas. 

I would recommend doing a prescreen on the subject property with a lender before getting under contract.