I’d actually focus less on finding someone local and more on finding someone who truly specializes in real estate.

Any advice on how we can increase our pre-approval amount or what steps we should be focusing on over the next year? 

I would recommend focusing on finding an attorney that specializes in partnership disputes and commercial litigation, though of course make sure that the attorney knows of the wrinkle and represents the SDIRA and not you individually. 

Currently, my main focus is to create a list of investors.

For lending, focus on resources that clearly explain how DSCR loans, portfolio loans, balloons, and recourse vs. non-recourse work in practice.Courses can be helpful, but the best ones walk you through real numbers, deal flow, and lending scenarios, not just theory.

Just make sure you have leads because his program is focused on acquisitions primarily.

I'm finishing up an MBA in Data Analytics at Clemson and hold a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering.I'm preparing to co-found an LLC with a fellow Army Captain as a 50/50 partnership focused on long-term rentals and BRRRR projects, or potential flips depending on cash flow.

Focus on mismanaged 6–20 units where you can bump income with leases, utilities, and light turns, not heavy rehabs.

Also, because of disclosures, there are some downsides to becoming one.A focus on saving commission fees could actually cost you a lot more in the long run. 

Quote from @Gabriel Romero: I am relatively new to cold calling and am now focusing on land deals throughout the US.