You need someone who clicks with you personally before engaging in a mentor/mentee relationship with the dedication and stress that may be involved.Where to find a mentorStart by looking within your existing network.

Any recommendations on mortgage brokers, banks etc? 

Paying down the current mortgage wouldn't change your monthly payment, it would only reduce the amount of payments due.

I am currently looking in my area for an existing multifamily property that comes with enough land that I could have zoned to build.At your convenience, Would you mind sharing your experience with me? 

.- Explore strategies like 1031 exchanges to defer capital gains taxes.Deductions and Expenses- Know eligible deductions: mortgage interest, property taxes, insurance, maintenance, and management fees.- Maintain detailed records of all real estate-related expenses.- Use cost segregation studies to expedite depreciation of your properties to offset large income gains.Entity Structure- Choose appropriate legal structure (LLC, partnership, or S corporation) with consideration for different tax implications.Tax Credits- Explore available credits, like energy-efficient or historic rehabilitation credits.Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction- Check eligibility for QBI deduction, providing up to a 20% deduction on qualified business income.Record Keeping- Keep accurate and organized records for tax compliance and audits.State and Local Taxes- Consider varying state and local tax implications, including property and income tax rates.Tax Planning- Engage in proactive tax planning, consulting with professionals for a comprehensive strategy.Tax Changes- Stay informed about changes in federal, state, and local tax laws affecting real estate investments.Remember to consult a real estate tax professional for personalized advice based on your specific situation.

The fix and flip strategy sounds great since you can refinance into a conventional mortgage with some equity, and not worry about making it your primary residence, or staying in it a year. 

Owning a Land and paying mortgage, insurance and taxes are passive loss for me. 

please confirm. this is important). the policy indicates that you are free and clear from " encumbrances and liens" that are in existence on or previous to the date that you took possession of the property. therefore, somebody missed it.

Now I am approaching retirement age and still have my investment properties laden with mortgages.

And that happened because in AU in those days most folks from AU did not realize how much FREE information is available in the US on line about real estate .. this information did not or does not Exist in AU so they were easy marks.