My professional background is data science / analytics, which means analyzing cash flows will probably come more naturally than building relationships, which apparently, is how one finds deals worth making.Are there meetups in these areas I should attend (digitally at first, presumably)? 

Those are some very different markets you listed.

Where are the best markets to target in and/or near NJ in 2025?

When tenants stay for ten years, it's usually because their rent is well below market rates.

Audrey - Dave might disagree or add more context, but I think that predicting 5-year rent growth is a bit like forecasting the stock market 5 years from now. 

Don't do real estate over the Stock market.

how is rental market in that area these days? 

Quote from @Jake Gasperi: I’m new to wholesaling and looking to learn more about the Des Moines, Iowa market.

What are some other emerging markets maybe with a bit lower to cost to entry for a BRRRR strategy?

Or do I look into a market like Las Cruces, NM, or Lubbock, TX, as an example of bigger markets I have looked at and am somewhat familiar with?