Readers are advised to seek professional advice.

This depends on the market you are seeking, but in Tampa where I am you cannot get a decent STR property under $400k or so. 

You're off to a great start by posting here but seek advice.

Overall, I am looking to seek connections and resources to learn as much as I can about real estate investing in general and grow my network in the area.

Instead of actively seeking out buyers, focus on what I do here: establish credibility, showcase your knowledge and competence, and lock in high-quality deals where the numbers make sense.In this space, transparency and honesty are key.

Also hearing better than market results from those who are self managing as consumers continue to buck excessive fees by seeking to book direct.  

Hello! I'm new to Bigger Pockets and have been immersing myself in the podcast and studying various aspects of real estate investing—from market analysis to financing—for the past two months. I'm planning to actively ...

@Helene GoodworthTo expand your network, identify your areas of interest, highlight your construction skills' application to investment projects, actively participate in local and online groups, and seek mentorship and guidance from experienced investors.

Readers are advised to seek professional advice.

Its the appreciation which provides the realization event you're seeking.