Unfortunately most have made lifestyle changes relying on checks that will never be cashed but can't fault the inexperienced investors with the amount of materials online, social media etc. where coaches, mentors and gurus share the ease in which they generated massive wealth in these neighborhoods.

I'm already looking at listings and doing deal analysis (or at least practicing at it).

Practice your pitch!

I don't know your criteria for a good deal, but if you're strictly looking on market for a quad in Raleigh you likely won't find one in the near future that meets what you're looking for.I have been looking in both Raleigh and Charlotte for the past few months and I barely came across any good deals at least online.

Check out other online guides available here: https://www.biggerpockets.com/guides3.

Shout-Out to an Amazing Realtor for Out-of-State Investors – Melissa Hudson in Cleveland, OH
Hey Bigger Pockets Community,
I wanted to take a moment to share an incredible experience I had working with Melissa Hudso...

Shout-Out to an Amazing Realtor for Out-of-State Investors – Melissa Hudson in Cleveland, OH
Hey Bigger Pockets Community,
I wanted to take a moment to share an incredible experience I had working with Melissa Hudso...

If not from CT and there's any networking events or groups online - id love to hear which groups you recommend/ webinars . lastly, any advice on how to properly approach investing professionals as a beginner - would be greatly appreciated. 

Use an online mortgage calculator to get an amortization schedule and present it with the offer.

A qualified professional appraiser will generate a comprehensive analysis considering factors such as sales comparisons, highest and best use, market conditions, and income generated following Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice guidelines.