I seek zoning variances frequently in Philadelphia, but its a lengthy process and don't personally find it a worthwhile pursuit for legalizing a second unit in a building.

You can also get a personal loan up to $50K which typically is to pay off credit cards debts, do renovations etc, but it can also be used as a down payment.

However, I'm familiar with CFP designation and they are mostly educated in investing in equity markets.

House hacking will also give you some personal "property management" experience.

You can get personal references but nobody gives you a bad personal references.

A month later now, they are insisting I come and see the place in person and see "how well it turned out".

Right now I'm educating myself as much as possible: reading every REI book I can get my hands on, listening to the BP podcast, I've attended one BP webinar.  

In which markets are you personally investing lately?

I personally have bought notes from two different HMLs on BP, and have had all interest paid, and all capital returned on loans that have reached maturity so far. 

@Randy Person had a good suggestion, tap into the local Real Estate Investor group athttps://www.facebook.com/groups/DaytonRealEstateInvesting, you'll find a lot of locals there happy to discuss with you.