In order to network with wholesalers and lenders the best way to go about it will be to attend the local REIA like The Greater Houston REIA and also joining the local investors facebook groups. 

It's highly unlikely to go that low again in your lifetime. would take another black swan event of monumental proportions.. 

Frisco might be the new downtown, so people living in Frisco probably go to Frisco for shopping or events. 

Look for distressed properties through online platforms or local agents.

It may be too late.yup stop payment.. also for future reference if you cant pay cash for these kind of educational events don't do it.how are you going to do business if you have to charge this to even get started.. this is the very thing that really bugs me about the real estate education sector in the US>. talking people to go into credit card debt when they know full well only 10% or less of folks that try this or any kind of wholesaling / flipping/ notes / lending etc will do anything .. and especially if you have no capital.

Right now, I’m in full research and networking mode—learning about Milwaukee’s neighborhoods, connecting with local investors, and exploring my first investment.

One needs to have outstanding local market knowledge to underwrite effectively. 

There are some programs through local government systems where you may be able to receive a tax abatement or grant here in Michigan in an effort to help beautify a neighborhood.

Best bet is to try local and credit unions, possibly may have some programs for better rates.

To invest out of state successfully, focus on building a strong local team (agent, PM, contractors), automating deal analysis, and using contingencies to protect yourself.