I think it is ultimately up to you with this decision, because of overall goals and what you're investing philosophy is.Some factors to consider, what would you be saving if you just rented?

If you asked and they withheld info, you have a stronger leg to stand on.

If you have tenants that are paying I would save up for when someone does move out.

Along the way, I've been diligently saving and building my credit with the dream of owning my first property.

Mind-blowing @Jordan Blanton. 1 house alone the interest savings was $180k. 

Primarily interested in long distance markets due to prices in my area (San Diego/California).At a stage where I am evaluating my savings versus the upfront costs to get into a STR property.

How about investing a dollar to save a quarter too?

We have decided to start saving, 25k-30k a month (Advised to keep this in MMA's until we're ready to use it to minimize risk) or 300-350k annually, strictly for Multiunit property investing.

I just wouldn't pay a guru.Read the forums here, listen to the podcasts, read the Bigger Pockets books, the worksheets, the willingness of people on this board to weigh in on potential deals.That in itself is honestly enough, you will get all of the information (and likely better info) at a fraction of the cost.Find a good real estate agent that specializes in working with investors and tell them you are looking to get into real estate investing and see if they can help you get started.Let me ask this question, what do you hope to get from a guru? 

I use Census data, Bureua of Labor Statistics, Chamber of Commerce info, and city websites.