Trying to learn and figure out how to get started.

Learn local landlord-tenant laws, FHA and VA loans, and property management software to streamline rent collection and maintenance.

Perhaps that isn't what you asked, but that's my advice that I learned the hard way.

Is there any good resource with links to the relevant sites in particular states/counties?

Negative cash flow and extended vacancy.RTR’s property management recommendations have been disappointingRTR team has been supportive and informative over the last 7 monthsAs a first time investor, I was thrilled to learn about RTR.

Excited to connect, share experiences, and learn from this amazing community.

I appreciate the encouragement—I'm excited to learn from and connect with investors in this community.Right now, I’m primarily focused on house hacking in the LA market, but I’m open to exploring out-of-state opportunities later in my career.

What I've learned is that population, job growth, and proximity to large cities are surface level indicators but don't always tell the whole story. 

@Chris LauerRecommend exploring as many sources as possible to get referrals AND cross-reference them to get as much accurate information as possible.Check out NARPM.com, BP’s Property Manager Finder (BiggerPockets: The Real Estate Investing Social Network), etc.Also, encourage you to learn from the mistakes of others - by reading posts here on BiggerPockets about owners not having their expectations met by their current Property Management Company.

On a day-to-day basis, I work with investors who are interested in learning about REI Nation.