Attend the trainings, smile, bring donuts to your caseworker, etc.  

You can meet local investors by registering to attend real estate events in your area: https://www.biggerpockets.com/forums/521-events-and-happenings6.

Engaging with other investors, agents, attending meetups/conferences in the area will definitely help you grow your network. 

I am currently watching lots of videos and attending webinars when I can.

And attend the appraisal inspection yourself.

@Angela HartHave you looked into attending local meetings and joining Facebook groups?

In the event that you don’t have money to build a cash buyer’s list first by using bandit signs or pulling lists and contacting potential cash buyers, you have two other options:Option 1: Attend local real estate meetups and or your local REIA meetings.

Learn how to analyze a deal, get in contact with some wholesalers/agents and attend walkthroughs and do a "sample analysis" after showings once you get a better idea of rehab costs.

Attend meetups and meet as many people in RE as you can.

I was finally able to obtain the zoning permit after attending a new hearing before the ZBA in May 2024 and the received the documentation in July (I also don't understand why it took two months to receive the paperwork).