But being a local it seems like the prices are only going higher. 

But they are usually a bit expensive I believe.I would also go to your local REIA and ask around there.

If you don't fall within that category a knowledgeable local real estate agent can be an excellent resource.

He can spend the next few years-ish getting a finance degree through an online school while working part time, but he just got offered a full time position helping with sales for a local wholesale real estate company. 

I’d love to connect with local investors, agents, lenders, and contractors in the Kansas City area.

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

Make sure you check the local ordinances / zoning and talk to the local administrator to see if you can do what you are planning.

I would echo this, it is a great REIA and the best place to find local, like-minded individuals and resources. 

While algorithms can analyze data at scale, real estate isn’t just about numbers—it’s about nuances and the most important component of real estate is understanding its value, and that to me (maybe I am old school) but can only be done by physically visiting and walking the property.So for me, factors like local market conditions, property inspections, and borrower credibility can’t be fully captured in a formula.

As a Florida Real Estate Attorney and Investor, I have seen investors do their best networking with local groups.