A quick google search reveals that Minneapolis provides assistance for first time home buyers so there seems to be a problem with funds for first time home buyers in your locale too.

Lower-priced properties in less desirable areas often come with higher risk.

Your ranking in your area for the time guest search is everything for this business.

A quick google search of your state indicates the following regaridng timeline to give notice:30 daysFor tenants who have lived in the property for less than one year, or have a lease for less than one year60 daysFor tenants who have lived in the property for more than one year but less than two years, or have a lease for more than one year but less than two years90 daysFor tenants who have lived in the property for more than two years, or have a lease for at least two yearsI'd definitely touch base with an eviction attorney in your state to ensure you are not missing any steps and to have the attorney as a backup option in case the tenant does not vacate easily.

You can also check meetup.com or search Facebook for real estate investment groups, clubs, or meetings in your area.

I would recommend searching for local Facebook groups to find events to attend.

If you are searching for offmarket, you can network with local wholesalers, and also use something like dealmachine to generate leads.

Single families are generally more desirable for tenants & you also get longer staying tenants most of the time. 

Starting with local credit unions is a good idea.2 - I recommend starting your search with a Realtor who specializes in working with investors.

My immediate goal is to acquire our first property and spend the next two years mastering the basics of real estate investment. ( Refining the Go and No property search criteria/ Learning the value of taxes and avoiding them as much as possible/ 1031 exchanges) Depending on my wife’s career orders, we may remain in Baltimore for 1-2 years, but I’m also exploring opportunities in West Texas, Sierra Vista, AZ, and Houston, TX.