Since it's your first investment property, it can be a double edged sword since yes a PM can help you and be an expert voice but but if you don't know what you need or your management style yet, it might also not benefit you.Honestly, I'd try managing on your own for a while, and look up property managers in the area while you're at it.

I am just down the road so let me know if you want to grab a coffee.

You don't have to nail some crazy deal to be an investor. 

If you don’t have the money to buy your own deal, then I see how arbitrage could be an attractive option.

This would be an end-run around real estate agency licensing law.

Oh jeez, this is going to be an amazing sub forum.

Driving for dollars can be an effective strategy the costs (gas, time, energy, materials) have to be added to the deal analysis. 

Research crime rates and choose areas with a good reputation.Amenities: Look for areas with access to amenities such as grocery stores, coffee shops, gyms, and entertainment options.

Does anybody know of any good groups or any folks familiar with the local market interested in grabbing a coffee or beer sometime?

Major player is not anything I would consider to be an accurate description of him.