I am on the board of CFRI, the local chapter of the National REIA.

20% down, mortgaged the rest through a local bank How did you add value to the deal?

I am looking to connect with local (to myself) investors who have made the leap out of state. 

Renting the PropertyIf your parents rent out the home, they have multiple income-generating opportunities: Renting As-Is: A 4-bed/2.5-bath home in a desirable area could command a high rental rate, likely around $2,500–$3,500/month, depending on local market conditions.

SW MN is hard to find Landlord Insurance, all local insurance companies say thy quote you landlord insurance, but they realy quote you general home owners insurance.

Johnson City could be a great spot for STRs, especially if you focus on hospital staff rotations, visiting professors, or traveling professionals, which would balance out any seasonal dips in tourism.For STRs, consider targeting weekend travelers exploring the Appalachian Trail, Boone Lake, or local festivals.

Are you focusing on local investments within LA County, or are you considering opportunities outside the area as well?

My father was a member of the IBEW out of Local 6, so I have a deep respect for your profession.Are you planning to use the BRRRR strategy on a 4-unit, or are you leaning toward a turn-key investment?

As for meeting local wholesalers, networking at meetups or even online could help you connect with the right people. 

If you want to network or ask specific questions about your local market, go to your local real estate forum and connect with investors from your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/86-local-real-estate-networking5.