If you are looking to expand your knowledge I highly recommend the webinars BP offers. 

Are you local here in OKC?

Connecting with investors is a great move too; it’s one of the best ways to gain real-world knowledge and build a strong foundation for your journey.What kind of investing are you most interested in? 

In depth knowledge of a city's economy is not necessary if you are buying a single SFR.

You will have to check your local laws but I am not aware of a requirement to post to the MLS.

What are out of state investors doing in Cuyahoga County if they don't have a property manager? Where do you find a LOIC? Is property management the only way to make this work?

Quote from @Michael Goddard: It is always great to hear someone coming from a place of giving to gain knowledge.

Learn local landlord-tenant laws, FHA and VA loans, and property management software to streamline rent collection and maintenance.

Here are additional comments:1) Buying out of state removes any local knowledge you have from assisting in your success, including knowing areas, people and costs. - We always recommend buying your first rental locally if possible and DIY managing to learn as much as possible before investing OOS.2) Lots of crooks and incompetents in the PMC world:( They both cost you money.- As already stated, you'll have a small portfolio.

Are there still deals to be found by a new solo investor in LA?  It seems most off market deals I've found have been from larger acquisition groups.  Is it true that marketing and advertising to find motivated sellers...