Newbie - Dallas/Irving/Plano - MFH, SFH, Apartment

[Kyle Adam]

Hello BP folks!

My name is Kyle Adam.  I'm originally from Canada, and grew up in Arlington, Texas.  I currently live in Irving, TX.  I'm looking to enter the home owner and real estate world this year.  I work as a sales engineer Mon-Fri (8-5) in the Dallas area, have zero debt, and a modest savings.  I also have weeknights, weekends, and sweat equity to learn and grow in the community.  I thoroughly enjoy solving problems and helping others.  I hope to find people to work with and learn from throughout this process.

My immediate goal is to buy a multifamily home in the area of Dallas, Irving, Carrollton, Plano, Frisco, or McKinney this year (Oct/Nov 2016).  I plan to live in one unit and rent the other(s) out.  In 2017 I plan to rehab and flip two houses and buy a second multifamily to live in one unit and rent the others.  

I am reading regularly, listening to podcasts, and now searching to connect with others.  Things on my immediate list to learn are: how to find deals, how to purchase, and how to be a landlord.

What would you recommend as a next step given my situation and goals?  Join local investor clubs?  Connect with real estate agents?  I am open to suggestions.  I am teachable, and I want to learn.

Thank you in advance!

Kyle