The last one, however, started with many people from two certain neighborhoods, gathered by a local non-profit, who spoke much about affordable housing, being displaced, etc.

@Malcolm Brown it is great that you are thinking of the money to fund the deals you are going to get started with but understanding what a deal is, I think, should be the starting point. 

Join one and start volunteering - it’s the best way to network and meet like minded people.

Engage an investor-focused realtor/broker in your preferred market (this is not a residential realtor) and start 'tire kicking' the market and properties that fit your criteria.

Would greatly appreciate advise on how to start sourcing the land and/or connect me to land brokers who can help.Thank you in advance!

Over the course of using Bigger Pockets I have had very degrees of opinions on who I should vote for concerning a post.When I first started using Bigger Pockets, I was too naïve to even think of voting for someone that took the time to answer one of my post.  

Your financial background is a huge asset, and it’s great that you’re starting locally in Milwaukee while keeping an eye on future expansion.If you’re looking to connect with like-minded investors, the Rental Property Association of Wisconsin is a fantastic resource for networking with rental portfolio owners, accessing legal resources, and finding contractors. https://www.aasew.org/For mentors, funding sources, and flippers, the Milwaukee REIA is another great group to explore. https://www.milwaukeereia.com/I’m a member of both and find unique value in each—maybe we’ll cross paths at a future meeting!

We are considering investing in Houston as foreign investors (from Belgium), our goal is to find and start with a long-term rental single or multi family home. 

As you're just starting out in Austin, focus on learning the local market, particularly areas with good rental demand and lower entry prices.

My wife wanted to move somewhere with more space, so I jumped on the opportunity.