Networking with Canadians who’ve invested in the U.S. and finding good local agents or property managers will also help a lot.

Is this a highly populated area, are there lots of jobs, are people moving to the area or is the population declining?

I suggest you start with developers in your local area (your county and neighboring counties level) because they would be your most likely partner or parcel buyer. 

More important than identifying target areas is establishing relationship with a local investor-friendly professional who has personal experience in investing in Cleveland.

I am a local investor, lets connect, Michael!

I like not worrying about being sued even when the local 2-bit lawyer tells me he is going to sue me (which he has done multiple times). 

There are a few options(1)You can get connected with the larger wholesaler firms in the area (2) go through PCPAO site and skiptrace the buyers of similar properties as yours, (3) hunt down the agents involved in the sale of properties similar to yours or go to local REI meetings and pitch it to the investors there. 

Feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the local market here or want to connect! 

I would echo this, it is a great REIA and the best place to find local, like-minded individuals and resources. 

We put together multifamily deals locally, and also run a monthly meetup group.