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

Try talking to local banks who want to do business with you.

I really want to do local meetups and interact with more advanced investors but don’t know where to start.

Also checkout what this person built in Chattanooga - seems like a good model for what you're looking to do. https://www.linkedin.com/posts/local-real-estate-developers_...

I live in the Lancaster PA area.I am new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.

I would connect with a local PM who has connections with the HUD programs so you can get the most accurate information and guidance in your market. 

Here are additional comments:1) Buying out of state removes any local knowledge you have from assisting in your success, including knowing areas, people and costs. - We always recommend buying your first rental locally if possible and DIY managing to learn as much as possible before investing OOS.2) Lots of crooks and incompetents in the PMC world:( They both cost you money.- As already stated, you'll have a small portfolio.

I wonder if your local MLS provider has a list of MLS_only brokers in their system?

What was the quality like compared to local options?

I'm new to real estate investing and looking to connect with any local investor.