The only exception might be a construction loan, but only after the purchase money has been funded thru a neutral party.No one, not even Fannie Mae, is lending at 2%.Origination fees, or points, are due when the loan funds, not when it’s approved.The letter you present has been published here on several occasions in almost the exact form and always identified as a scam:https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/49/topics/913193-is-this-a-legit-private-money-lenderhttps://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/49/topics/302281-private-lender?

In June of 2015 I went thru the whole process of setting up an LLC with an IRA with Checkbook IRA, which at the time seemed legit. 

It's a noble effort you are undertaking here for sure...auditor data is "open" now and most have a very good interface with GIS (check out MapBox or even Power BI)...odds are high that county auditors in these locations are on the same platform...they will have neighborhoods defined by "codes" you can use to define areas...your auditor will also have a "reporter tool" (more than likely) to draw down csv files with the data you need...since you are an agent, you'll want to overlay your MLS data for a complete picture...That said, you can draw neighborhoods with the MLS map tools, pull closed comps for specific neighborhoods and do your analysis from there...our MLS has a data point for rents...this is the only way to see "market rents"All this is a moving target and requires a lot of attention to cleaning and updating your data to stay accurate...

BUT, with these online platforms (like RentRedi) I feel more confident navigating the whole process of managing.

If this is not an appropriate platform to post my questions, please suggest other forums/sites that I should look into.

Also, how do I find a legit collection agent? 

I also owe a large portion of my success to you and for helping me find a mentorship platform.

Not to say this guy isn't legit, but as Nathan mentioned, do some homework and make sure you know all the terms of the loans, and maybe ask for some referrals.  

Fursnishedfinder.com could be a great marketing platform to you if you decide to continue self managing.

This should help you identify who is legit and who is inexperienced or shady.