If you engage in an active business such as flipping - UBIT may apply, be sure to speak with knowledgeable CPA to understand the tax liability. 

Currently seeking out contacts in southern Maine to find deals.

I’d narrow your search to one maybe two max and seek to build relationships with the tips @Theo Hicks provided.It pays to be a player in the market so breaking in will cost you more at first than those who have been there before you.

You don't need a long buyers list, just a few connections with active investors who are looking for what you are finding. 

I have been an active user ever since! 

Hot- a few months ago here meant super active.

I'm mostly involved with buying distressed/value add properties.Be happy to jump on a call or have coffee with any wholesalers who are looking for an active buyer to put on their buyers list.

Keep an active papertrail. 

One thing I'd like to add that I learned recently from a well established investor, is that a lot of "traditional" banks are NOT always the best place to seek out financing.

Everything is going on in the market.Charlotte has one of the most active RE markets in the US.This is an extremely broad question, but some basic economic research on RE trends for the area should paint a good picture for you.