If you’re looking to invest in your backyard, it helps to network with as many locals in the industry as you can.

Networking through meetups and online communities can also help.Good luck!

You’re in the trenches, you read this forum, you network, you ought to know. 

I'm new to real estate and looking to grow my network so I can learn to manage and grow our portfolio.

If you spend six months networking and act interested and not interesting, you will have connections, but you need to build your background before you approach or there will be no value for them.

The most common pitfalls include underestimating the workload, difficulty finding reliable tenants, and managing legal requirements.Additionally, DIY property managers may not have access to the same resources and networks as professional property management companies.

A few general tips - look for markets with strong economic growth - job growth, population growth, network with other investors in your area and check which states they are investing in, for out-of-state investing - work with someone who has your best interests at heart and is also an investor who can easily plug you in with their network (GCs, lenders, PMs).

Private Money Lenders:Pros: If you have a network of private investors, you can find individuals who lend money for a share of the profits.

I'm hoping this leads to me avoiding a lot of those early mistakes, but we'll see how well that actually holds up.The main thing I am excited about with Bigger Pockets is hearing opinions and thoughts from a wide array of people.

BP is a great place to network and build out your team.