Can prospective lenders provide this without a prior relationship and major documentation?.

Environment/neighborhood would cover the socio-economic aspects that determine your deal success in the long run.What I have found over the years is in a nutshell, a matter of relationships quality.

Speaking with other investors/Realtors/contractors/etc. is a great way to do this, for more reasons than one - not only can you learn from them, but you can create a working relationship with them.  

This is a business based on relationships.

Once you have built a relationship with them; you should be able to negotiate better rates and terms.

I have a love/hate relationship with the "aggressive breed" ban as I've lived with animals typically listed as "aggressive", such as German Shepherds and Pitbulls, that have been some of the best dogs I've ever known.

Most people have a love hate relationship with them as they are famous for telling you that you have an asset under agreement then pull the wool out from underneath you and sell it to someone else.

Using Private Money (not hard money) is great if you have relationships with the right people.

If you are going to be doing this process over and over again a may be worth the cost to establish a good relationship with a realtor that knows your market.

I've only attended a handful (3) so far and I've already formed some relationships with some really knowledgeable people.