Keep doing what you're doing with networking, and just keep showing up — in person or online.

I'd look at crime rates and I'd also look at multifamily supply projections to see how many units are expected to come online in the next few years. 

There are a bunch of good choices IMHO.We don't have leather but all our surfaces are super durable because they are higher end sofas and chairs.The 3 main couches are a pair of Basset and a La-Z-Boy.

If the software is not simplifying your life or making you more accurate, you shouldn't use it.Software does have extremely helpful features like online payments, marketing syndication (click a button and your property is advertised on multiple sites), electronic document review/signing, maintenance tracking, and owner reports.

We manage our own, but there's not a lot of great choices of PMs in the area (which is why I decided to manage myself). 

The younger generation now sees that money can be made remote and by influencing or other things online, but it doesn't make you lendable (and most quit each thing every four months so never get the two years they need as 1099).

We use DealCheck to underwire and QuickBooks Online for everything related to accounting and numbers.

To recap: Be extremely cautious with flat fee MLS sites that only refer business to other agents.Bonus PointsYou should also consider the ease of use of the flat fee MLS listing provider, for example, can you complete everything online?

The choice depends on their priorities simplicity now or long-term tax advantages.

Even small, consistent amounts add up over time.Learn & NetworkKeep reading REI books, but also join real estate meetups or online groups like here on BiggerPockets.