Local REIA groups and meetups (check Meetup.com or BiggerPockets) are excellent for connecting with both new and experienced investors.I’d be happy to grab coffee and chat about the market or share insights.

Separately, if I experienced flooding in the past and did major plumbing renovation work to resolve the issue, do I still need to disclose these resolved issues? 

We are currently talking to Listing agents, lenders and general contractors.

We've been going to duplex open houses in Cleveland & Akron and a few showings with our agent who has more experience in the Akron area, to learn about neighborhoods, price, quality, etc.

@Hiyun Park only experienced investors can DIY everything in Class C Midwest areas like Detroit, Cleveland, St Louis, etc.Hopefully the info below will help you:-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Recommend you first figure out the property Class you want to invest in, THEN figure out the corresponding location to invest in.Property Class will typically dictate the Class of tenant you get, which greatly IMPACTS rental income stability and property maintenance/damage by tenants.If you apply Class A assumptions to a Class B or C purchase, your expectations won’t be met and it may be a financial disaster.If you buy/renovate a property in Class D area to Class A standards, what quality of tenant will you get?

As an agent, I've worked with multiple wholesalers, novations, subto, etc. 

I am an agent and own a short term rental mgmnt company so am very familiar with the STR rules and regulations as well as the best areas for that strategy locally. 

It’s crucial to work with an experienced broker who can access multiple carriers.

.: @Owen Rosen I'm in WA as is STR Do you have an agent? 

I am considering the pros/cons of doing this without a property manager or real estate agent.