I get 2 or 3 bookings in a whole year from them.Given my high prices I am happing with the simplicity of getting the bookings from VRBO I do advertising other places such as local FB groups for Lake houses.Ultimately VRBO is king for me. 

If they do, your best bet is a local community bank that funds these types of properties.Another option is a private lender but that money will be pretty expensive, as mentioned 10%  + 

Quote from @Edward Barrett: New investor here trying to stay in my local market (Dayton, OH).Since I've started looking for my first deal I've come across a few section 8 properties that seem to pencil, but I'm a bit loath to jump into that kind of deal.

I'm currently looking for a flip locally - within 30-45 minutes of Lancaster, PA. 

I plan to manage the properties myself until it conflicts with my regular job.I would appreciate any advice on these markets to ensure success and connect with local investors.    

Could you please recommend any local real estate agents?

Check with local realtors for handyman recommendations. 

It takes a lot of phone calls and asking around, but you can normally find a local or regional bank that is willing to work with investors on these types of properties.Mike

.- Build Relationships with Vendors: Getting quotes from local contractors or vendors for common maintenance or repair tasks can give you a clearer picture of recurring costs.

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.