Peter-

I would recommend the Mortgage Brokers Forum - they hold conferences periodically and it is a great place to make contacts with commercial brokers or resi brokers that are transitioning.  I would also recommend that you attend the CREF put on by the MBA in Orlando in February - it is the best place to network we've found.  If you register ahead of time, you will have access to the attendee's list - you can use it to pre-set meetings.  I also have a network of brokers & community banks I can plug you into - the community banks are great referral sources for hard money as well.  Give me a buzz or drop me an email and I'll be happy to help.