I can understand how a wholesaler would find some deals (I've heard some podcasts about that, essentially they're hitting the pavement) but I wonder how "investors" and "realtors" find properties if they are not using MLS/Zillow/Redfin? 

Mistakes in this business can be expensive, legally risky, and stressful, and I’ve seen too many people learn the hard way when they didn’t have the right knowledge or systems in place.If I came across as talking down to you, I truly apologize.

Yea, you likely will get a ton of people trying to sell you a software.

Others not including their management fees in returns to enhance returns, lots of questionable ways people calculate returns but many avoid to say "what did the investor actually make". 

Nope, going to have to do it all yourself or hire people.

I had people with pets that kept house cleaner than those without.

People are losing money.

I have had experience helping improve people's listings and gaining them more bookings.I’d love to help you craft a compelling listing—completely FREE—so you can start seeing better results.

A majority of people who rent homes here have 100% equity in them so any rent will cash flow. 

Either way, there are several people who make this work all the time.