Go to your local credit union. 

If you're planning to invest locally, I highly recommend it.

If you don't fall within that category a knowledgeable local real estate agent can be an excellent resource.

Just do thorough research on the local market and have a solid plan for managing the properties remotely.Good luck!

You should find a lot of resources on BP but I think the most useful people to talk to would be MF builders and local officials in your target areas.

I'm no expert, but do know for a fact that you are much more likely to find "good deals" off MLS – through mailing, cold calling, off market groups/connections, etc.

When you go from a single family to a Duplex, it becomes "comercial" property and according to (Michigan) the local building dept, I had to hire contractors. 

I can feel that you have embraced the move and change. if you want to meet some local investors there is a meet-up next Tuesday. it's posted in the classifieds.

If I was local to the property I would be more okay with it rather than if I was investing in older in a different state.

What’s required for success in this is deep knowledge of real estate in general and the area in particular; experience in real estate and the local laws, etc.; and capital to pay for options, marketing, legal counsel, accounting, tax advise, etc.