They were an elderly couple that wanted to get out of the landlord game and move to the beach.

Yeah I been on YT for the last couple days, it’s going pretty good.

Other than that attend your local REIA and once you get a property post it on Bigger Pockets. 

Do a couple deals with your friends (who sound like they're ready to gouge you) and then get out of your comfort zone and do it yourself!

While I am still learning, I plan on attending local REI meet ups in the South Florida region so I can get to know like minded individuals who share the same goals in real estate investing.  

Keep in mind the approval will only last a couple months, and the lender won't "lock in" the rate unless you have a signed purchase agreement.

When I got one with them a couple years ago, they required 12 months seasoning.  80% LTV was pretty easy to get. 

An investor is limited to 4 financed properties including subject - so they could do this Financing method for a couple of the first transactions. 

Had a couple attempts where I made it far but frankly the market here has been so competitive it has led me to seek my fortune elsewhere, specifically in Chicago, where I have a good friend doing real estate. 

Due to being a complete novice on the topic; I have spent the last few months reading books, attending webinars, and countless hours of driving while listening to podcast.