When reaching out for the first time, it might be best to focus on introducing yourself rather than diving straight into the topic of purchasing the property.

Sell it while the market is still strong.At the same time, start educating yourself.

I'm happy to pay for systems to save time and guidance but the fee seems ambitious and I don't love the idea of forking over large percentage of profits to be told what I can and can't do with the company. 

About 90% of the time they fail to meet HUD guidelines.HUD guidelines require that to qualify as an Emotional Support Animal, the prospective resident must have a letter from a licensed health professional, licensed in your state, in which the health professional acknowledges they have a relationship with the client that was more than just one session. 

here are a couple charts comparing a few of the markets mentioned in this threadthe first shows appreciation and the second shows "rent to value" ratio over time

You'll find that many won't spend the time to consider your $375k loan.  

What should first-time investors be aware of when considering these types of loans, and what tips would you share for navigating the process successfully?"

The way Wayne County PA handles its OTC property inventory is to hold auctions four times a year.

I have been interested in long-term rentals for some time and looked at fix and flips when I was much younger.  

If you are not going to be a lender full time and do not have any experience in the space, passive investing in a fund is the way to go.