Hey @Greg Strunak, get a good CPA to help get this all setup.

This is probably a question for your personal CPA or if you don't have one, paying a consultation fee to a Real Estate centered CPA would be a good investment. 

.• Networking and Connections: Are there local Bay Area meetups or forums for new investors?

In addition you are sharing with cellular network, which gets priority.

I would join local business networking groups to get inside deals.

Your network is your networth.

Pairing that with relationship-building will help you uncover off-market opportunities and find local experts who can guide you.For meetups, here are a few ideas:Indianapolis Real Estate Investors Association (Indy REIA): They have a mix of virtual and in-person events and are a good starting point for networking with other investors in the Indy market.Louisville Real Estate Investors Group (REIG): A similar organization for the Louisville market, with educational and networking opportunities.Check out BiggerPockets Meetups: Many cities have local meetups organized by investors active on BiggerPockets, and they often include virtual options.Facebook Groups: Look for local investing groups like "Indianapolis Real Estate Investors" or "Louisville REI."

From digging into real time market data and calcualting cash flow.. to literally driving for dollars, you want someone with an incredible network of pros who can unearth leads (probate attorneys, divorce attorneys, local fix and flip circles) that might connect you with a ready buyer or flud tenant.

BP is a great place for education and networking. 

Im currently networking to partner up with a home builder here in Staten Island and build Semis on empty land.