New investor looking for tips and networking opportunities

[Nicholas Carr]

Hello! My name is Nick Carr and I live in the Akron, Ohio area. I'm starting to get into real estate and am currently looking for a small multifamily home to house hack. I was wondering if anyone knew of any local REI groups that are somewhat newbie friendly? I'm also wondering if anyone has any other helpful tips for a first-time investor. I'd like to focus on buy and hold properties that are small multifamily homes, and my goal is to scale up enough over the next 5-7 years so that I can quit my W2 job. I appreciate any help anyone's willing to give. Thank you in advanced and I'm looking forward to getting to know some of you.