Starting from my backyard I'm looking to connect with some vets in the industry and familiar to the area/market.

Always introduce yourself as ..John or maybe Reagan is better....Maybe like hi I'm Reagan like the President, your friendly neighborhood realtor....that's how they will remember you and you want them to remember you. 

I would include your realtor in the conversation, at least when you're introducing yourself.

Besides immediate friends and family who know me, how do I market or introduce myself as a new agent with no experience.  

BiggerPockets is full of resources designed to help you along your journey, whether you are just getting started or a seasoned investor.

Lots of leg work, calls and emails, but if you can find a few deals that could get you started with enough capital to get into your first deal on your own.

Hey all,Just wanted to introduce myself - bought a duplex in Los Feliz over the summer with a few business partners and will be renovating the property while living there.

Connecting with other investors was a game-changer for me when I started.

To get started, consider focusing on house hacking in California with properties like duplexes or single-family homes with ADUs, or explore out-of-state rentals in landlord-friendly markets like Ohio or Georgia.

How long ago did you start?