Motivation is key set the goals as high as you can! 

Since we both work from home on most days, the key is not talking business after the work day.

I think it's perfectly acceptable to do what you plan to, if your broker is knowledgeable and in agreement with you wholesaling/investing altogether.

For example, you set up key word alerts. http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts

At 2:30 he called and said that he had left the keys on the counter and the house unlocked and would not be coming back for the walk through. 

Bryan, the key in direct marketing deals per pieces mailed is "motivation".  

After all, I enjoy getting checks monthly - but it would nice to cash in a fat check once in while too.Question 2 - Networking is key to finding good deals - MLS can have some good deals periodically - but the best deals are going to come from a distressed situation that you find out about through word of mouth - and that means staying in front of your network and growing it so that you are exposed to new situations and opportunities.

If you have the cash and cooperative tenants, you can  exchange "cash for keys" and instantly build equity.

I would say to sell retail just because I don't know of an investor market thats buying turn-key vacation rentals.  

The key is "equitable interest"...as in, you can't market a property you don't have "equitable interest" in without a license.