I would say look for a hard money lender actually - you won’t need to verify income or anything, they usually care most about the deal itself and this deal seems like it has great potential also when you’re starting out, it’s going to be difficult finding private money fast and they’re not going to trust you as much so their rate will be higher, hard money lenders at that point have the same rates as them!

Median home prices skyrocketed during the pandemic and rental rates couldn't keep up. 

Also track rental demand, vacancy rates, and prices.

We live in a very desirable town 30mins outside NYC with great schools. 

So, far its you who are getting schooled here!

I know much of the information from BP is free in terms of blog posts, podcast, YT videos and forum but I'm old school and like a comprehensive book I can crack open.

A temporary market imbalance, combined with cheap borrowing costs (ultra-low interest rates). 

I do some that aren't, but have that in mind that you will be selling for cash, seller financing or on a much higher rate with a mobile home specific lender (higher rates).

About 8 or 9 units I'm locked in around 2.75% interest rate so I'm trying to avoid that.

Would attending a real estate school or taking specific courses be beneficial in understanding the fundamentals?