My wife is a new real estate agent and we are both new investors.

Kevin,My advise is to seek out 2-3 independent Insurance agents (they represent multiple companies) that can write in CA. 

i have had agents ask for this in the past. if it's off market, then everything is really between you and the seller.but post more info if this is not capturing the situation accurately

Zillow and other free sites are great, but I recommend using an RE Investment friendly Agent.

Your background is super impressive...agent, investor, and architect...I'd love to connect to see how we might be able to work together!

I'm seeking reputable contractors and handymen who work with investors in the central Florida area.

Find an investor focused real estate agent in your market!

I would recommend finding an attorney over Anderson or Prime (have heard mixed reviews about them) if you decide you want to get an LLC.The reason for Wyoming is that you get a registered agent and a virtual business address for anonymity and no one can track you down (e.g. tenant trying to sue you, if you're at fault in a car accident and the other party is trying to sue you).

As a real estate agent, have you met the requirements for real estate professional status?

I really don't know how much the bids are going for nor is the listing agent legally bound to let me know the honest offers received so far.Any help would be appreciated!