We liked the TL home and nice lakefront view but here are some cons: pretty far/isolated, no real dining options outside and besides the music festivals/BNP tournament, didn't know if it would do well as a STR. 

We have also used Salesforce.com, but it's serious overkill for most real estate investors and it's not FREE.

Join a local Real Estate Investor Association (or, REIA) in your area and go to their meetings regularly.

If I buy a small business that includes real estate, it is possible to assume the existing loan (at a lower rate), and finance the additional amount up to asking on a second position mortgage?

I have no real estate experience, but I am looking to venture into it.

I use an investor friendly real estate agent that you can find here on BP. 

The Department of Veteran Affairs announced that it has temporally lifted its ban on buyers paying for real estate agent representation.

In real estate investing, the value you provide should far outweigh the payment you receive.As "The Go-Giver" by Bob Burg and John David Mann teaches:"Your true worth is determined by how much more you give in value, than you take in payment."

Any suggestions real-estate or not are greatly appreciated 

When I initially purchased these properties, the mortgage was based solely on the real estate, with the business value being incidental.I am currently in the process of acquiring a $2 million, 5 bedroom bed and breakfast located in a downtown area in PA.