I've whittled the list down to 10 so far.I'm new to the BP forums but it looks like you can send me a PM and we could work out a time to connect.

Connecting with other investors is in fact one of the answers to your first questions about how to find properties off the MLS.

Secondly, go to all meet ups in your area and make connections and see if there is a seasoned investor willing to mentor you in exchange for work.

I love to connect. 

I'm new to the area and REI in all and would love to make these connections. 

Let's find time to connect Brendan!

Read books on investing in real estate, listen to the podcasts, attend webinars and stay active on the forums while connecting with other investors in your area and pick a niche.

Here are some good places to start: http://www.biggerpockets.com/meet- find and connect with other BP members that are in your area.http://www.biggerpockets.com/alerts - Set up keyword alerts to be notified of the topics that interest you.And, of course thehttp://www.biggerpockets.com/forums - ask any question about real estate!

I would love to connect and discuss further with you!!

Your plan of investing in 2-4 unit buildings in SD is a great strategy and I applaud you for your "numbers first" perspective (very few of the newer investors I come across figure out this mentality as quickly as you have appeared to).In regard to your question about the best way for someone without a RE license to access the MLS in SD; I think Sandicor's 'Client Connect' site will be your best option.