We would like to find off-market properties to either 1) purchase and turn into rental properties, or 2) I can serve as their agent when they want to sell their home, and grow my personal contact network. 

I am in Pearland as well, interested in brrrr for rentals and looking to network.

So instead of 'development and multi-family', start with 'networking, service, reading spreadsheets/analyzing, connecting with people, managing projects, etc....' basically write out whatever you really enjoy doing OR whatever skill you want to acquire... and find a job in RE that matches. because RE is so diverse and people oriented, you're bound to find something that suits you. 

I look forward to networking with other members in the New England area!

Do not BUY a system from a "guru", work with the local wholesalers, ask people on BP, go to the REIA (leave your wallet at home) and meet other wholesalers, network, network, network NOW.

Once I run my properties by different lenders in my network, I want to negotiate a fair loan that works for both parties  but I can't tell what I should be asking for.

As for finding a local HML, I think your best shot would be to attend a local real estate meetup since a lot of companies attend to network.

., networking is key.

@Bryan Phapmixay NETWORK NETWORK NETWORKIn RE, more than any other business Network=Net worth!

After gaining experience in my own multifamily deals, becoming educated through multifamily syndication courses (thanks @Michael Blank), attending dozens of summits and meetings, listening to hundreds of multifamily podcasts, reading, networking, analyzing hundreds of deals, and making offers for the past two years, guess how many large deals I got under contract?