If you are in a state where eviction cost is high and it is tenant friendly you may need a higher credit score to offset default risk and eviction cost.If you are in a landlord friendly state where it is easier to get non paying tenants out you may be able to handle more none payment risk.  

Close friends?

I grew up in North Florida so I have a lot of family, friends and business contacts in that area.  

We live in the bay area because this is where our jobs are and we have family in the area, but we prefer to invest in landlord friendly states.

I rented out the additional bedrooms to friends and family, charging them well below market, and sold when it was time for my wife and I to start our own adventures.

I have no social sphere or contacts family or friends in Oregon (I don’t know anyone besides my fiancée).Goals: continue to have flexible schedule while enjoying what I do (selling real estate) and making good money.

Borrowed money from friends and family to pay cash for the property as the bank would not finance it until it had been remodeled, made livable, and brought up to code.

You have received some great recommendations and if you are yet to decide on an Investor friendly to work with, you can send me a DM and see if we are a good fit.I do provide free mentorship and a lot of free resources and connections to anyone I work with especially beginners like you. 

In the NE states, AKA tenant friendly states, I would always have a PM to help protect my interests.

I would advise finding an investor friendly realtor when you choose a market.