Hey Tanner,Welcome in, its a good idea to build your team as you get started and then being ready to pull the trigger when the right deal comes along.Our firm helps to track down unconventional financing for clients through various hard money/DSCR lenders.

I know a lender if you are in California. 

Did you work with any real estate professionals (agents, lenders, etc.) that you'd recommend to others?

Contact a lender and get pre-approved from them.

A lot of banks, credit lenders, and credit unions are offering ~5% on CD’s right now which is the best high yield I can find at the moment.

Hard money lenders and rehab loans do not exist here, though you can get some renovation funds together with your mortgage.REI meetups are more rare too, and mostly focused on investing abroad.

Hey Gino, I would start by looking at reviews, previous closings, etc..

Quorum and Figure are faster lenders.-40 to 43% DTI is usual limit for most lenders.

Double check with the original lender because some are allowing investors to assume the loan without having it be a primary residence. 

They have reviews, screenshots, explanation videos, reviews, etc.Example: https://www.etsy.com/search?