I have received much interest, and decided to just have an open house for a few hours to show the place to prospective tenants and collect applications, rather than trying to meet with individuals one by one (so I'm not driving across town everyday for a showing and dealing with people who are no longer interested, not qualified, or don't show up at all).

You won't be able to get them out after you've closed on it if they don't meet your application requirements.

I hope your friend meets up with Tony Suprano's realtor nephew and tried the same thing with them. 

I spent money on programs to train me, been to meet ups for networking and still nothing.

I spent money on programs to train me, been to meet ups for networking and still nothing.

Especially when the same company is advertising for investors to meet face to face when they travel to California - the land of the out of state investor! 

There are tremendous resources on this site for you to use.Attend local REIA meetings and connect with like-minded investors: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happeningsRead the Beginner’s Guide: http://www.biggerpockets.com/real-estate-investingListen to the BP Podcasts:https://www.biggerpockets.com/podcast

The first few days I received about 70 messages from people inquiring, but very few meet my criteria.

I would highly recommend it if you're considering investing in that area because you will meet many great contacts. 

I have a deal that is about to implode and looking for any Hard Money Investor that can close super quickly and meet terms.