PR is nothing but run around and greasing palms, playing stupid games, and contacting 37 different people to get simple answers. 

As @Lee Ripma mentioned "Set For Life" would be a great book to read.As far as choosing the right market... you can read several reports online (just search google for XYZ city real estate report).

I’m looking to open an online account with vanguard, TD Ameritrade, E*Trade, or maybe even the Robinhood ap with my checkbook sdira to buy REITS.

They have more skin in the game then you do.Make sure you get clear title.

Can anyone recommend an easy to use online payment app or method for allowing tenants to pay online and direct to my account?

Lease docs, contract docs for when our clients buy/sell houses, anything we need signed is done through there.Giving tenants the ability to pay online or with a card.

But it's a totally different game with this one. 

I've done a lot of research on it online, which is possible here, and even gone to see it (pretty recently renovated!?).

Enjoy the game!

My issue-situation-question is this: Because we have made REI our goal, with a plan for a lifestyle change, business objectives , and everything, we are online every day looking for and analyzing deals [as you can see I upgraded my BP account to have full access to the calculators!!!