Given the property is located in the Poconos and the property is vacant more regularly as an STR there are proactive measures  you should  be taking such as making sure there are heating sources so that the plumbing does not freeze and ensuring there are no blocks in the plumbing lines with routine checks.

They have regular meet ups.

They've got experts and experienced investors who regularly dive deep into these topics, so you're always in the know.

.), but the bedrooms are regular keys, as @Jonathan C. mentioned for the front door, the unit is set up to send me an email when the batteries are low. i also have another student rental ( 8 rooms, 2 entry, 2 units + utility room) one master key and each bedroom has its own key that will get students in the entry, there unit, and there own bedroom. had a locksmith do that one. cost me a few hundred dollars with keying and supplying the locks ( 13 total ). i like both setups but may look into the landlord locks again for my 3rd student rental i just purchased.

If you treat the renter (resident) well, provide a well-kept home that you service regularly, and stay on top of any maintenance issues, a resident will likely remain in the house for many years. 

It's easier for an investor to stay committed to the plan and avoid change orders than it is a regular homeowner.

People in the group have regular calls with sellers that you could potentially listen in on.

I plan to manage the properties myself until it conflicts with my regular job.I would appreciate any advice on these markets to ensure success and connect with local investors.

I’d suggest you dig into the numbers, compare it to what a regular sale would give you, and talk to someone who specializes in this type of deal.

I didn't even have $1000 saved at that time and I was really just thinking of going the regular route of going through the banks and just save up as much as I could for a down payment on my first investment home to rent out.