Hi, I currently live in DC in the states but have plans to eventually go back to Spain, I am originally from a small town in Valencia.

You can also check meetup.com or search Facebook for real estate investment groups, clubs, or meetings in your area.I'm in a small town where networking is impossible, so I do it online through facebook groups and BiggerPockets.

Do you live there or would you be an out of town investor @Thurben James?  

If I moved away from home and put myself in a new town where I had no connections and nothing to rely on but my own resources and skills, would that help me achieve a level of wisdom that I wouldn't have gotten living with my parents? 

I have two out of town SFRs.

San Marcos is known for its college town vibe, potentially offering a broader rental market and the size of this one could be a good student rental.

Check with the town/city to make sure they don't have any ordinances on the books or in the pipeline that would affect having a short term rental there.Let us know how it goes! 

Great way to gain experience and ensure you're an expert in the local area, whether its your college town or your hometown that you intend to operate your business in.

My town is quickly becoming a tourist destination and some people who prefer that it remain a quaint, sleepy little beach and surf town, are selling to move to more remote locations. 

His rates are well below market, even for the small town he is in.