Study these forums, read books, listen to real estate podcasts.

The legislature specifically prohibited cities from requiring any kind of permit or permission, so it's not just a fee issue:"The key statutory language now states that local governments may not “require any owner or manager of rental property to obtain any permit or permission under Article 11 or Article 12 . . . to lease or rent residential real property or to register rental property with the local government.”I know Shannon (not real well, she just started over here) and I know she came from Asheville planning so I'm sure their zoning might look similar. 

you can learn a lot about what you like and don't like by studying up on the countless RE-related resources that are out there (podcasts, youtube channels, books, blogs, BP forums, etc., etc.)Good luck out there!

Get familiar with the terminology and different kinds of investments and pick what you feel you will be comfortable with (flips, short term rentals, long term rentals, BRRRR, buy and hold, etc.) its a whole new language you have to learn.

I did look into another firm that's all investor friendly and one of the agents have been very kind to teach me and guide me that would be my vote. try and find a team that works with investors, it's a different language than retail buying. if you are not personally an investor, learning under someone would add value.

If you study and educate yourself enough on a generally broad scope of the tax advantages of RE, you will be able to determine if a CPA fits your mold or not.

After renovation and cash-out refi and cost segregation study, will show a significant loss (est. 150-200k loss), can I do a fix and flip that makes roughly 100k in profit. 

Good PM's will have references, reviews, multiple case studies they can point to about their business, their systems will be tight and transparent.

Study the market.

My primary investors market is Allentown and surrounding areas..I have been studying Allentown market happy to share and point you in the right direction.Have you identified your investment strategy?