I would advice going to some of the live auctions and just watching and getting comfortable with it and talking to some of the buyers.  

Any talk of "ethical or legal practices" or "laws changing" just expose those investors who are strictly "in the box" thinkers whose lack of risk tolerance keeps them where they are comfortable.

I feel quite comfortable knowing where this late fee is going and that my PM is advocating on my behalf to get the rent paid. 

I do like this idea because this has a potential of keeping the down payment down as low as we are comfortable with.

Also, I'm sure after doing this a few times, I could get to a point where I did not need an agent, but I'm not comfortable with that yet.

Moreover, inexperienced investors often want a "partner" because they're (rightfully) intimidated by RE investing, and--because misery loves company--they feel more comfortable with a partner.

I am not sure if you need to speak with 5 or more specifically, its more important that you find one that you feel comfortable with.

You’re leaving your comfort zone into something completely uncharted to you.  

. - The "are you comfortable with a background check question" should be reworded.

For them, their LTV might be too high from the get go funding this way, and I always explain that to them which makes them even more comfortable lending to me.