For the 97.00 I got probably 40 hours of training, all of the docs and cold call scripts, and yellow card and yellow letter wording I need. 

Then add in the winter storm in Feb where there was record cold temps for a record setting duration and add in power outages.  8 units with frozen pipe related issues some with expensive emergency repairs.  

I’m gonna start cold calling sellers and need to be able to find buyers once I land a home under contract.

I would definitely ask your realtor for references or you may need to start cold calling.

The market I live in is extremely hot right now , and houses are selling above asking price (which is already inflated).

Also, should I spend the time to source off-market deals (driving for dollars/cold calling owners), or is relying on listed properties the way to go? 

You can bring them value and offer your time (to find a deal by cold calling, for example), in exchange for them teaching you how to flip.

I have been an agent for 18 years and have extensive experience processing short sales and Probates, and I am conformable with cold calling and door knocking. 

I am conformable with cold calls and door knocking. 

I'm a PA REALTOR and I have been cold calling apartment communities to establish a relationship.