I want to remain local in NJ or at most drive down 1hr to PA (self-manage or, last resort, hire a PM)However, I must also consider maintaining reserves, a safety net for my primary home, and an emergency fund.It's just hard for a new investor now :(

Network with local investors to understand what formulas they're using.3.

You can contact some local property managers and get a better idea of the rental market.

I'm a local investor, flipper, and property management company owner.  

The management companies & local investors usually lease places up within 1-2 weeks max (depending on if you want to hold out of higher rents) How would you think about leasing these out? 

I've signed up to my local GaREIA 2 weeks ago and already started networking there. 

I live in Portland  Maine , I am new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.. thank you.

I am new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.

You're free to call it "weighted deal" and there is no law against a bad deal - anything you can talk another person into is technically "possible."

An attorney that only does litigation or maritime law, not so good.