In terms of comps and understanding both sales & lease deals, as well as what space might be available by tracking lease expirations, it is absolutely the best choice out there. 

Looking to understand more about the nuts/bolts of what these folks are pitching.

I would want to make sure this person understands the risks involved fully before getting any deal under contract.

Zoning and Regulations: This is very important to understand, so you know for certain that your intentions for the property are legal.

I began to track my hours and where those hours went.My understanding is that I can use the STR loophole to reduce my wife's taxable income.

both have been solid choices

I come across plenty of solid deals daily that I cant afford myself so I send it out to my investors.

I personally recommend speaking with a CPA that specializes in Canadians investing in the US and how to best prepare your investing strategy along with understanding what taxes would look like for your specific situation. 

You don't need to know everything to get started; you need a foundation to build on and the rest will come through experience and then refining your education.You can build a basic understanding of investing in 3-6 months.

You need to understand what's actually required to have these kinds of conversations with an inspector who may be over-stepping.