I'd suggest checking local Airbnb/VRBO data or using AirDNA to see occupancy rates and average nightly rates in the area.

Go to BUILD YOUR TEAM at the top of the screen and look for local investors or meetups in your area.

I had a local bank provide a 1031 without fees. 

I totally agree, big investors can go nationwide, but knowing the ins and outs of your local market makes all the difference.

If you are just looking to network I would go the route of meetups locally (you can check above at the toolbar, hoover over forums then to the right you have events and meetups.If you are looking to wholesale and build a list of buyers that fix and flip for deals you may have then I would pull lists from 3rd party sites like Property Radar or propstream.

My name is Chad, I am a renovation construction PM professionally, currently starting a search to find/ invest in some Indianapolis and local area fix and flip projects.

Start small, refine your process, and use your network to connect with local investors and seasoned professionals for guidance.Good luck!

As you're very aware, appreciation here locally has skyrocketed in the past ~4 years.

You're best bet is to call a few brokers local to the area and see what they can come up with.It's definitely going to be a surplus or excess carrier that will do it and the premiums will be high. 

If you have a local group to whom I could present, I do give out handouts.