get as much education as you can about the game, networking is IMPORTANT so dont leave that part out attent local meetups and rei events (the free ones ).

It was a reverse mortgage sale and owners have turned over to bank and realtor assured it was clear title/deed with no special issues to work through like short sale etc.

I'm looking to break into the rental property game with an owner occupied triplex or quadplex in the coming months.

You and the title company are probably lucky that it ended this way with your money returned to you and no loss.

If you are really serious about the investment, use title company to conduct title search on the property to get a whole picture of all the liens and chain of title history of the property. 

You can get free leads through your Title Company's website.

I have been around the business of real estate my whole life (mother owns and runs a title agency) but never actually put any of my own effort into it.

I also require the borrower to put some skin in the game. (20-25%) of acquisition cost at least.

As 'newbies' trying to enter the RE game as multi-family rental investors, we have first been working on establishing our team - asking as many questions as we can - networking with those we already know (and don't) - trying to gain knowledge and build a foundation.With that all said..My partner and I have the opportunity to meet with a attorney who specializes in both residential and commercial real estate. 

Seems like your experience as a title agent will be a huge benefit as you continue on this journey - and you'll be a great addition to the forums with that expertise!