See http://www.biggerpockets.com/renewsblog/2010/06/30/introduction-to-real-estate-analysis-investing/ .

When you have almost 50% of your SFRs  are rentals compared to the west coast were that number is 6 to 10%... and most renters are in apartments.. .. its far more complex for the PM's in those markets to keep units rented.. just the logistics.. compared to apartment owners.. that is one aspect of the cash flow game that us on the west coast just don't really have a comprehension of.. its one thing to have 100 units in a square block IE apartments but out in the burbs 100 houses may be in a 10 square mile area and its just much harder to cordiante.. along with each house is on an island isolated as it were and subject to break in's ext....

Let me know and I can make introductions. 

“Be greedy when people are fearful, be fearful when people are greedy” - Buffet ruleNow with that said, does present logistical issues you mentioned.I would suggest starting with real estate brokers in that area, and ask them to make introductions.

Given this introduction I have several questions.1) Most importantly why would anyone with good intentions mentor anyone ?

I just recently discovered all of their how-to videos on YouTube, a whole comprehensive series of videos from the tenant, landlord and owner points of views...they are great!

Can anyone point me to a good template that is comprehensive, factoring in tax deductions, etc?

Now, adding value or not, this is a pretty high fee to pay for a couple of handshakes and an introduction.

If you're doing decent screening and have pet requirements (deposits, insurance, trainings, introductions, et al) in place then your risk would be the same no matter if your tenant has a golden retriever or a pit bull.

Hold my beer.Joking aside, I have several college level classes w/o a degree from criminal justice to the brink of higher level calculus.Basic math and comprehension are really the only tools you need.