There is a "Find an agent" tool on BP that will connect you to agents that act as solid resources to get started.  

Purchase price: $389,000 Cash invested: $120,000 Sale price: $710,000 Investment Highlights:- Located in a fast and solid growing neighborhood close to restaurants, bars, art shops, art galleries and tech oriented co-working buildings. - ​Fully upgraded with energy saving high impact windows, new AC units, new electrical panels, plumbing, new kitchens, stainless steel appliances, each building has its own energy efficient washer and dryer, energy saving lightings, landscaping, new high quality porcelain floors.​- No flooding area.- ​8 street parking spaces.

Income, and solid foundation for future investments Lessons learned?

Hi Jay,Check out this thread.I have mapped out some solid B class areas - https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86/topics/699494-toledo-ohio-why-is-toledo-an-investor-friendly-areaMuch success

Specifically, I'm wondering:Does the person responsible for finding the house and buyer need to be explicitly mentioned in any of the closing documents?

Here are some responses to your questions:1.

Take advantage of military benefits like the VA loan and relocation help, and chat with a financial advisor who knows military stuff to create a solid plan for your exciting transition!

The rental market is solid right now, and long-term unfurnished rentals are a very stable investment vehicle. 

I have good credit (730+) and solid income.I am currently lined up for a conventional loan with ~15% down, 6.5% rate, and low closing costs but this would use up most of my liquid cash (minus emergency fund).

As always, they will say "Everyone has to do due diligence and is responsible for their decisions."