I know they're many different choices but I have no idea what type of loan to get etc.

Though if you are looking more at RI you might want to check out the Eastern Mass REIA in Taunton, though I think they canceled that meeting at least for this month (they have a 2nd one in Rockland as well).As for your initial strategy, if you are low on funds then Wholesaling is usually the niche of choice.  

The two easy choices could have been: Call your bank and have them overnight a check on your behalf (or log into website and dispatch one from your online account to be overnighted for $30).

Second of all, apologies for the long post, I have been reading and listening to podcasts and I guess I just have a ton of questions, so please point me to any prior content if this has already been covered.Since I am in the San Francisco area and need some time to determine the best way to come up with my down payment, I thought I would "learn my market" but first I need to pick a market and would appreciate your feedback.Based on the podcasts and posts I have reviewed so far, it seems to me that I have a couple of choices:1) Go a few hours from SF and start there.

The agents might not have a choice if motivated buyers are out there searching for houses on their own.

If it's a flip I believe gas would be a better choice to invest in.

Most importantly, meet them face to face before you make your choice!  

There are two ways to find a mentor.  1) Pay for mentorship2) Don't pay for mentorship.It is this second choice that I'm certain nearly 100% of new investors are looking for.I'm telling you that you are doing it wrong. 

Success is a process, failure is a choice

Good choice to fire them and move on.