I know many people want their manager rummaging around so they can look at potential issue but there are easier ways to get that done.  

You could friend some wholesalers in the target area, you could find owners via the county website, you could use direct mail, you could drive for dollar, ... etc.

On the other side of the closing table, cashing that big check, trust me, you're more likely to say "wow that was a lot of work, how can I make this easier?"

If you are trying to target people who need to get rid of their house, what do you do to connect with these people (through social media)?

If the property is owned by an LLC but you are accepting rent into a personal account or paying bills from the personal account for the property, it can make it easier if you are sued to claim the property was not entirely controlled by the LLC. 

But the law doesn't say if its a small amount then the sale is easier to overturn. 

Ideally I'm targeting B to C duplexes/triplexes with minimal to light rehab (since this will be a first for me).

3) What can investors do to make your life easier?

I think you're instinct on auctions is typically correct, but if you really learn the niche (as is true in most of real estate) you'll likely find an easier time finding deals.

If you have an awesome realtor like Avery Carl like I do it makes things easier.