@Dan Geffen moved down there and knows the area well if you want to connect with a local investor.

The idea of "economy of scale" on small properties like duplexes is largely a myth.

I am new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.

I also saw your post on one of the local Buffalo facebook forums, and will caution you that you are going to get a WIDE variety of feedback from a WIDE variety of investors -- especially on that group! 

There’s huge retal income potential if you nail that balance between improvements that wow tenants and improvements that merely look fancy but don’t justify higher rents.I’d also keep an eye on how your high end plan fits the local demand.

It’s worth reaching out to your local tax office to explore options.

Having reasonable expectations, hiring a local professional (Realtor or PM), doing your research, and doing everything right (i.e. pro photos, professional design, good renovation, proper amenities and location, etc) are the keys to success in 2025.

Life's just too short for dealing with stuff without having all those professionals and that economy of scale between you and the tenants.

I've found deals in local online groups on Facebook, simply asking people for what I want. 

The management companies & local investors usually lease places up within 1-2 weeks max (depending on if you want to hold out of higher rents) How would you think about leasing these out?