I’ve found that leveraging local networking events, investor meetups, and even direct outreach through social media can help bridge that gap.One challenge I had to get creative with recently was navigating a complex title issue on a property.

I believe it to be a little Southern California hidden treasure for cashflow, mainly class C but if you know what you are doing its a really good option to invest locally in CA with decent returns.

As for finding a contractor, asking local investors for recommendations is a great start.

Have you tried contacting a local community bank? 

This shows the importance of networking locally, building your connections and your "tribe". 

There are many people on this site pushing those locations that have not historically kept up with inflation.Btw I advocate all newbies start local even if their local market has not kept up with inflation.  

Also, local meetups are a great way to meet local investors!

Before you commit I would talk to banks, probably local banks are better than regional or national. 

I don’t want to keep up on local, state and federal law changes so they keep me legal.

Local real estate agent.