so, good inventory gets snapped up by locals before OOS investors even get a look at it.

They're pretty organized, but expect annual inspections and some extra paperwork. 

I'm local to the area you checked into on the post.

Also, connect with local investors—they’re a great resource.

-Local banks were the best.

Hello BPers I was going to attend my first local investor event/meet up and was wondering what people normally wear to these things.

Go to small local/regional banks NOT national ones.

I recommend checking local crime statistics on SpotCrime.

Networking, local meetups, door knocking, mailers, wholesalers, online forums specific to your area of interest.  

In any case, I thing your investment are pretty solid and should earn you something between a decent return all the way to a spectacular return depending on the local economic situation.