Once you see the best ones you can check on local rules and zoning, etc

Start by attending real estate meetups, BiggerPockets forums, and local investor groups to connect with potential partners.

Do you attend any local meet ups? 

Let me know if you're investing locally. 

They are considered one and the same as it pertains to culpability,responsibility, or liability.Just because I hired someone to provide a service to me is NOTconsidered the same as my relying on "professional advice" (froma certified or licensed professional) which might avoid thecauses of tort listed above.Check with your local Real Estate experienced legal advisor.

I work with both local and out-of-state investors, as well as residential sellers, and I offer staging services to maximize showings and listing photos.

Connect with a local lender to explore what works for you.How does this impact your homebuying plans this year?

Once you have ran through about 3 months or so of this and penciled out 50-100 deals for fun, I would talk to a local agent and start the process of looking.

So, if you aren't local you need to expect to be paying people.

Talk to local investors, study rent comps, and understand how leasing cycles work in your chosen market.