I'm pretty new to the game and I'm wondering how much of the challenge I should take a hands on approach in... 

It's a numbers game as to how many actually close.  

I am not an agent and I don't have any "skin in the game", but there are a few properties out there that could work for somebody that has cash and time.

Just be wary that playing spreads in such a market is often like a game of hot potato.

Are there any seasoned wholesale investors willing to school me to the game?

Using leverage or other peoples money (OPM) is the name of the game.

Those that know how to "play the game" can drag things out for 2-3 months before you get your property back!

Another thing that comes to mind is learning to spot which tenants will be problem tenants before purchase, and prepare a game plan throughout the year-whether self-managing or managing the managers.  

If you have the cash, why not just use your current cash that you were going to pay off mortgage 1 with and use it for whatever your end game is? 

Possibly become licensed, it's a pretty cheap way to get in the game and then you can make some side money and be an asset to local investors.5.