I call them in-between because they are conferences, so not like your local meetups, but they are not truly "industry" conferences like NMHC, where you will meet primarily career, corporate multi-family people.Bigger Pockets Conference and Best Ever Conference are two that likely would cater to people more in your position.  

It's designed to protect assets in the event of lawsuits, negligence, etc. and it only applies when there is underlying insurance coverage. 

If you’re looking to invest in your backyard, it helps to network with as many locals in the industry as you can.

The more properties you walk and the more industry conversations you have, the better you’ll get at identifying these opportunities.

It seemed like a long-term play with less price or industry volatility.

@Asseille OdelCFRI.netCheck out the calendar of events and start volunteering - it’s the best way to meet people there.

You can try to attend virtual events, many real estate meetups and events offer virtual options.

Here is a list of BP events:  https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-real-estate-events-... 

LIREIA hosts at least one meet-up event every month on Long Island. 

Beyond trying to connect on this forum would recommend look in the BP Meet up section and checking out local DFW FB RE investor Facebook groups as well as Meetup.com and Eventbrite for local events.