This is an older couple and they don’t really want to do much by way of providing the information.This would be my first actual investment and would love to get some partners involved but all I have as of right now is a lead

HOA board members are generally unable to separate the "insult" of having to carry their neighbor financially from pure business decisions.I think your best bet is to work your deal so that the HOA is paid off in full. 

What type of real estate are you involved in? 

Depending on the amount of the lien it may be best to get an attorney involved.

Several of my friends have expressed an interest in getting involved with me to fix and flip property. 

Your best bet is to contact a Farmers agent as they will have access to all 3 of those companies.

As listed in the subject, I am from Maricopa, Arizona and I am beyond motivated to start getting involved in rentals and flipping homes.

I believe there’s much value to what you said, but it seems like it would mostly apply down the road when I’m able to more actively involve myself in more deals than just one.

I've held my license with HomeSmart, and they are great, just wondering if anyone would recommend a firm that's more involved in the investing world as opposed to retail. 

Finding a contractor you trust and who does quality work is the biggest factor, but this is hard to do from afar and referrals may be your best bet.