Social media, craigslist, zillow, etc. 

I have been trying to discover a meaningful method to read the areas social structure, economics, etc. 

If you will just send me your bank account info, password,  DOB, Copy of your drivers license and social security number my Nigerian cousin will take care of the assignment for only $5,000

How valuable is using social media. 

Also ensure you screen your tenants well... there are many programs on the market that will help screen, but I find social media is a great place to start.  

Rental income is shown on sch.E which is not subject to social security taxes (like FICA) but all the other taxes.When you're renting property vs owning, you can't depreciate it but your rent payments are totally tax deductible (vs only interest on mortgage is).Insurance: you'll have to get Tenant or renter insurance which protects the property and your liability if someone slips and falls, set building on fire etc. this is not your professional insurance - just regular insurance you have for your home.I don't see how kind of entity will affect the taxes: if it's just you the owner, LLC will be disregarded entity and shown on your own taxes, only on different schedules.

Just get out and socialize with other investors.

I've considered getting my license or getting into wholesaling but due to the costs of living on Long Island and the fact that my professional and social networks are entirely NYC-based, I'll likely be moving to a new market within the year.Do any other younger investors out there have any stories/tips they could share as to how they got the ball rolling?

George, employers are important but all those smaller towns you named attract retirees that don't like to drive in big cites and need to be near doctors and social activities.

Be active on your social media platforms and create your own brand.