Do you have a good local property manager to rent it?

Some areas of the west coast are allowing multiple units to be built out on a single parcel and in these higher COL areas, it's a boon for the homeowners, renters, builders and even for the local governments that are collecting the building fees.

Wash dishes at the local restaurants.  

One tip: focus on areas with year-round demand and check local regulations early—they can make or break a deal. 

One buddy of mine split his time between local flips in Greensboro and buy-and-hold single-families in Memphis.

House HackAttend as many REI meetups as you can to grow your network of investors for referrals, help through challenges you may incur but don't have experience with, and learn from proven guest speakersNetworking app like blinq to compile all of your contacts for REI in one area with phone and emailbegin conversations with local credit unions exploring what type of loan products they offer

I am looking to network and build a strong business relationship with a local real estate agent.

Im "local" in Allentown. 

I have attended local meetups so that I can have a handful of experienced folks who have resources to share.  

@Iliana Herrman while your local market may feel safer there are also markets that will withstand market downturns and appreciate.