You can also check their reviews online at Google, Facebook, or Yelp.

I started getting into some Facebook groups couple of days ago, I'll definitely look into RE events, I know there are few that takes place in the city most of the weekends 

You can also find real estate investing groups through meetup.com, Facebook, or a Google search.

I’ll also connect with locals through BiggerPockets or Facebook groups for first-hand insights.If visiting isn’t an option, lean on a reliable local team (agents, property managers) to help vet the area.

I scoured craigslist, the web and facebook for people to do very specific tasks.

I would research as much as I can on those markets and join your local investment Facebook groups as well because there are local investors who can share more experiences as well. 

I would look into your local Facebook pages for investors as well. 

I'd connect with some local investors either through the Airbnb app.. can message them as a guest and ask for a phone call to see their experiences and see if someone can send you their P/L or share experiences, and or connect with local facebook groups.

You can also check their reviews online at Google, Facebook, or Yelp.

Join local Facebook groups in surrounding markets, and you will get more insight into other investors' experiences.