I took your advice and am planning to attend some REIN events soon to start meeting more local investors!

Don't attend the national roadshows training, but if there is a local guru that teaches classes, invest a weekend or whatever they offer.   

Expand your knowledge and connections in the real estate industry by attending networking events and building professional relationships.Make sure your short-term plans match up with your long-term objectives and consider looking at different markets with positive economic indicators, job growth, population growth, affordability, and rental demand.

And you want to attend 2 real estate conferences.

I see these properties as places I'd want to stay long-term even though they may be just rentals.I will look into attending my local RE meetups as I can understand what other investors go through and seek advice from other couples who invest.

Hi Martin, Have you tried attending local real estate meetups in your area?

I'd start attending as many local real estate investment meetings and meetup and see if you can find some partners. 

Attending local real estate meetups can be a great place to find other investors as well and get more market specific advice!

Attend your local REI meetups, build up a strong network, and feel free to reach out and connect with everyone in the community.

I recommend that you start attending local meet ups and networking with other investors in your area.