However, to achieve those returns requires renting individual rooms month to month as well as for Short Term Rentals (AirBnB style) rather than renting each tri-plex as an separate living unit.  

Prohibition on distribution or sale of mailing or telephone number lists — Penalty. (1) Except as provided in subsections (2),Subsection (2)  "...this section does not prevent an individual from compiling a mailing list or a telephone number list by examination or copying of public records, original documents or applications which are otherwise open to public inspection."

Would that at all be possible, and how would I go about "networking online"? 

I worry because quite frankly our tenant pool isn't one that adapts super well to change, they aren't that technologically inclined (online / app = payments - lol - some of these folks are depositing cash into our bank accounts on the 5th) and I worry that this change will disrupt, cause move-outs, more fees, etc...Thanks in advance for your insight, heckles and advice.

I doubt someone could determine what my needs are without meeting with me.I do prefer to have referral partners that have specialties that I can refer people with that specific need to them.So, if I know a financial planner does fixed-price financial plans for high net worth individuals and a client asks me about that, they'd get that referral.

Very specific situation I've got here that I haven't been able to find good information online that fits this unique criteria.I have a friend that has a property that they own free and clear of mortgage, yet they are paying a HELOC of approx. $300 a month for.

Additionally, reaching out and starting relationships with lenders now will help you identify what information you may not have realized you would need to get funding, (a lot of lenders do not lend to individuals, only corporations, like an LLC).

Property this close to the city is limited.Using an online calculator I found and assuming the property appreciates 3% per year and the after tax return on reinvestment if I sell is 5%, I’d still make $120k after 20 years if I rent.

My experience- I tried to do it on my own, online, and researched a lot.

I want to have more saved for just in case expenses for life/a potential rental property but also want real time experience and I think this would be a great way to do it.Your absolutely right that real "pounding the pavement" experience is the best way to gain knowledge and I think it is a reasonable request which someone can say yes or no..however I dont think contacting random people who are investors on LinkedIn or online is the correct way to do it.