You will find the right people to learn from on bigger pockets, so just stay active.

For contrast to your plan, we have several private money partners lined up for buy and hold rentals and are now actively looking for properties that fit our criteria.

Go grab your signs and throw them away.Of, if you're willing to engage in criminal activities to make a buck, look for more profitable opportunities than bandit signs and wholesaling. 

I know @Steven Hamilton II who is very active on here has a second office in Florida.

I'm hoping to bridge my theoretical and macro-level knowledge with the real colour and nuance that comes from being a hand's on and active investor and owner. 

Keeping that 0 deals in mind (and actively looking at making my first), how should I approach this situation?

@Matthew T.To fund any kind of retirement plan, you need earned (active) income.

I started exploring and educating myself about the process and different markets.

To find the local wholesalers, I suggest doing some research into what local Real Estate Investment Associations (usually via Meetup.com) are available and actively meeting.

I make more coffee and breakfast and sit outside and read at least 10 pages of water ever book I currently reading.After that, I begin to answer email while making any calls I need to make.I then work on my blog or explore BP and answer any forum questions I can.Pick up a little around the house and play with the dog and then I am off to work for the day.