We are already surrounded on three sides by urban zoned homes.My neighbors and I have been approached by two individuals, one is a neighbor who is a real estate agent, and the other one a friend of a neighbor, who works with a real estate attorney; both individuals asked us to join them in working with the 5-6 developers they have approached.

welcome @Cam Caraher and congrats on joining BP, this place is the start for many, sure was for me longer ago than I care to admit.I'm not personally in your market, although was born in dorchester and grew up in NH, but this is a great place to meet locals.If you have not already a great starting point is the Meetups posted here, just search for your area and see if any meetups are happening. 

My name is Vlad  and I’m excited to join this group as a rookie real estate investor.

Don't know the whole story, so not taking sides, but can point out:1) Josh Holley just joined BP December 26, 2024- Why?

Find agents with experience working with investors and join local real estate investment groups for off-market deals.

Also join the Fbook group  Upstate NY Real Estate Investors  lot of good stuff there.

.-  Joining communities and connecting with others on a similar path. 

@Dennis Boettjer The best way I have found to find quality operators is by joining a Community focused specifically on passive investing in syndications.  

Once I am settled I was planning on joining a class either online or in person.

@Max BellileTo build relationships in the real estate investing and business communities in NJ, join local real estate groups like REIAs, meetup groups, and local events like Chamber of Commerce events and open houses.