Is a bank loan the best option for first timers?

[Account Closed]

My fiance and I are looking to get into real estate, and we are planning as our first step (after making sure our budget can afford it) to get preapproved for a 2nd loan. Our first home is where we live and is mortgaged. 

Is a traditional bank loan the best route for a couple with no connections? Should we even look into hard money loans or seller financing or other options? We cannot do a HELOC yet as our current mortgage is too new. Any advice is appreciated!

If loan is a good option, any lender recommendations would be appreciated!

p.s. How can we find information about local meetups?