I think the main points would apply to you as well.STR is great, as long as you go into it with eyes wide open and reasonable expectations. 

I have been to RE meetups in the past with like-minded everyday investors pursuing similar goals, sharing stories and learning from each other, running through numbers, sharing network contacts, and even doing deals together.

This is why we network with other real estate investors - kind of like what you are doing here!

Networking will be key here.

I personally spend about 50K a year in masterminds and always get my money back just through network of individuals you get access to.

He has an online network called Financial Friends Network.

Hi Nando, I'm an Agent and Investor in the Spokane area but I have a good network in the greater Seattle area.

Expanding your portfolio, streamlining tenant management, diversifying income streams, building a network, and planning for growth are also recommended.

If I was to solicit for wholesale deals, I would suggest, as above, to network at any and all real estate investment meetups in your area as you can! 

However, I do rely on my trusted network of local professionals for different parts of the process.