Partner with local Real Estate Agents:  Partner with agents that can help market the property to their network of buyers. 

They are not familiar with local ordinances related to managing your property.2.

So, I went to a Lifestyles Unlimited 2 hour intro this morning in Dallas, and I want to know of any experiences anyone in the BPverse has had with this organization.

A local contractor would be an ideal buyer and could likely complete the repairs far cheaper than the OOS OP.   

You'd want to connect with a local broker on that front, but a few of them have programs based on the census-tract you're either selling or buying in. 

Investigate areas with strong growth potential and rental demand, and take into account regional real estate market trends.Networking: Attend local real estate events, sign up for internet discussion groups, and establish relationships with seasoned investors.

If your advisor uses Monarch Money you can grant them temporary visibility and organizing privileges which can be helpful as well. 

I don't think I ever asked him specifically to be a "mentor", it just happened organically.

Listen to the last 6 months of BP podcasts and find local people you can trust. 

LSAs are mainly for companies without local offices such as national companies.