Any information you can share on what you have learned acquiring your first contract would be appreciated.

Make sure to check out Education for all your REI learning. 

I learned he's got 15 or so crews going simultaneously, fixing up mostly "C" properties in Indy--what appeared to be a serious flipping operation.

You can learn to write contracts, etc through the classes.

I get no believable answers so I go ahead and call the buyer hoping to at least get a sense of whether the deal is legit.So here is what I learned that I need your input on.  

Hello everyone,My name is Brett and attempting to learn all I can so I can start investing with in the next 6 months.

I am interested in passive income through rentals, and learning how I can use the 1031 exchange to trade up into small multifamily.

Been learning a tremendous amount by reading the articles, listening to podcasts, and reading answers to questions that people post.

Just keep doing what you are doing, which is your own DD even when you have professionals involved because, speaking for me personally, I can always learn so hire someone willing to look and review what your DD has revealed as well. 

Since then I've been hooked trying to learn as much as possible through books, blogs, podcasts, and forums.