In the state of MD, if a property sits inside an LLC on its own and the buyer buys the membership of the LLC instead of buying the property directly, there is no recordation tax. 

I'm not a pro member (yet), but Pro membership weeds out those who aren't engaged.I feel like an awkward Jr.

There is also  a newer generation of info services that many REIAs sell of give access for a membership fee.

There are three different “memberships” you can join, depending on the number of transactions you predict you will do.

My local REIA has membership fees that will void the monthly meeting fees.

Checking in from vacationing in Spain: verifying @Omar Khan threw me the trip after one-year's membership in his exclusive diamond jubilee club.

Also make sure you are answering the questions correctly on their forms --- I once saw an operating agreement generated from a similar service stating that the member will represent the membership interests in the LLC using a certificate.

PS: I'm not trying to sell "Pro" memberships here, but just one comment: you really need to be willing to invest in yourself before you can reasonably expect other people to invest in you.

There is DIG though (Diversified real estate investment group) which I heard was good/nearby, but it's a paid membership group. 

I don't know the costs in your state, they may vary, but I pay something like $1200/year to be an agent (license, NAR membership, MLS dues, E&O insurance, etc).I don't make a lot as an agent, but it helps me A LOT to facilitate my investing.