@Abby Flynna few random thoughts-definitely stay local (for now) - you have a lot of great markets within a couple hours of where you are-it's very difficult to 'start' with a flip - flips take capital and you're going up against all the professional flippers who flip as a business-go to all the local REIA meetings within a 1-2 hour radius - find the ones you like - go to those regularly-call lenders and discuss loan options. 

You'll never get good advice from real estate professionals who think aggressive house hacking is renting out one side of a duplex. 

Network your butt off and find private money parters as soon as possible so you can take advantage of the deals instead of wholesaling.

In cases where I rent a room I just rely on checking they have a professional health care license and a job in the area but that is only because the roommate is my son.  

So, I basically have formed a network of general contractors that have already worked for my friend's investment group.

How about this: TX trust -> Wyoming LLC(with a professional registered agent).Trust is generally preferred by lenders over LLCs.If OP gets sued for personal reasons, the plaintiff would not be able to discover his property even if they searched every state. 

toilets can easily be replaced (if the current one isn't white) and you can have the tub professionally reglazed. 

Could you advise on the best methods to find a mentor and network with professionals in this field?

of course, consult with a professional, but recommend starting here https://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc701As mentioned, you still have to pay the depreciation unrecapture.Good luck.

I have turned to Bigger Pockets to learn more about investing in real estate and start networking as much as I can.