If you are prepared and ready to buy a rental property I would consider doing so if the opportunity presents itself.

If we were just selling, this would be easy, but since we want to keep the house as a rental, I want to go in prepared to the bank and put the best foot forward. 

Be prepared to walk away from EVERY deal. 

They are an experienced agent and very familiar with the neighborhood and the brokerage is based in the town the unit is located.I know it's easier to just share the listing, but I'm not prepared post it that at this time.

I don't mind spreading the wealth so I'm looking for a partner to tag team with so we can close this deal quickly but i also want to work with somebody that can make sure i have every step correct and prepare for my next deal.

FWIW, 20+ investors on one deal is a lot of people and relationships to manage, not to mention financials to prepare.  

I think that the best time to buy investment property when you aren't 100% convinced that you are getting a fantastic deal (which, by the way is exactly what you are doing - by keeping the first property as an investment instead of selling it to pay the downpayment for the new one, you are essentially buying an investment property) is when you are financially prepared to make that purchase. 

I read the blog on 7 tips to prepare for and host an open house.

I definitely do not want to be stuck in the analysis paralysis zone, as I have done that before with other things and I know how that can kill momentum early.I do feel as though I need to be better prepared in order to create those relationships with a partner/private lender, though.

It definitely pays to have a relationship with a realtor be upfront/honest with them and be prepared to pay them for their time to provide their professional opinion on comps, rental value, the neighborhood,etc. or find someone through BP that might have access to MLS.